The ESA ocean observation satellite ERS-1. I - Description of the history, goals, and payload of ERS-1
Abstract
The development of the ERS-1 satellite for remote sensing of the oceans, coasts, and sea ice (currently in the definition phase) by ESA is discussed. The history of ESA involvement in remote sensing is traced through the inception of the ERS-1 program in 1980, and the role of the NASA Landsat/Seasat and French SPOT programs in helping define the goals and payload concept of ERS-1 is stressed. The nominal payload concept finalized in the announcement of opportunity in October, 1981, comprises radar altimeter, active microwave instrumentation (wave and wind scatterometers plus SAR), along-track scanning radiometer with microwave sounder, precision range and range-rate equipment, and laser retroreflector. The user requirements submitted by governmental and scientific bodies in the Netherlands are listed and explained.
- Publication:
-
Ruimtevaart
- Pub Date:
- February 1983
- Bibcode:
- 1983Ruimt..32...35B
- Keywords:
-
- Ers-1 (Esa Satellite);
- European Space Programs;
- Maritime Satellites;
- Oceanographic Parameters;
- Remote Sensors;
- Satellite Sounding;
- Microwave Sensors;
- Payloads;
- Satellite-Borne Instruments;
- Spacecraft Configurations;
- Launch Vehicles and Space Vehicles