Design of Very High-Resolution Satellite Telescopes Part I: Optical System Design

Abstract

The telescope design of a very high-resolution earth observation satellite is a challenging task, due to several constraints, including the size, mass, performance, tolerance, assembly, integrating, and environmental aspects. However, the demand for very high-resolution satellite imageries has increased day by day due to the numerous commercial and military applications. In this paper, two different optical configurations with ground sampling distance of 25 cm are investigated according to a definite mission statement. The first configuration represents an on-axis Korsch scheme, whereas the second design is based on the arrangement of the off-axis three-mirror anastigmatic configuration. Both designs have the advantage of small conic mirror constants without higher order parameters. Tolerance analysis of both designs utilizing a Monte Carlo algorithm is performed. The suggested baffling arrangements are simulated and tested according to a series of point sources with different off-axis angles. Finally, a comparison between the performance of the proposed designs and a recent study given by the French space agency is presented. The results show that the proposed designs can be implemented by the existing technologies and launched into space by the available launch vehicles.