UK-based Surrey Satellite Technology (SSTL) has secured a new contract to provide high-resolution Earth observation optical data from the SSTL S1-4 satellite to Airbus.
Launched last September, SSTL S1-4 is an Earth observation satellite that is capable of acquiring multiple targets in a single pass. It is designed to operate for more than seven years.
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Under the contract, SSTL will lease imaging payload capacity of the SSTL S1-4 to Airbus for its lifetime, as well as retain the ownership of the satellite and its in-orbit satellite operations.
SSTL managing director Sarah Parker said: “We are delighted with the performance of the SSTL S1-4 in orbit, demonstrated by the outstanding quality of the sub 1m resolution images of Tampa, Ho Chi Minh City and Chihuahua that we have released today.
“I am also pleased to announce that Airbus is enhancing its imagery offering by leasing data capacity from the SSTL S1-4, and I look forward to start service shortly.”
The contract will provide Airbus with high-resolution panchromatic and multispectral optical data, which will improve its high-resolution coverage capabilities.
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By GlobalDataThe Airbus portfolio already includes image data procured from seven SSTL-built satellites.
Airbus Defence and Space, Intelligence UK Programmes head Phil Brownnett said: “We really look forward to welcoming the S1-4 data into the Intelligence portfolio, to further enhance our high-resolution coverage capabilities.
“This will benefit our high-demand users across the defence and security sectors.”
The 450kg SSTL S1-4 acquires multiple targets by leveraging spot, strip and mosaic imaging modes.
The satellite’s very high-resolution imager is capable of capturing sub 1m resolution images in panchromatic mode.
Additionally, it can acquire sub 4m resolution images in multispectral mode with a swath width of 20.8km.
