Core Satellite Components

An example ring laser gyroscope produced by Arsenal from the Ukraine. (Photo by Nockson via Wikimedia Commons)
An example ring laser gyroscope produced by Arsenal from the Ukraine. (Photo by Nockson via Wikimedia Commons)

 

Korean companies have successfully developed an optical gyroscope, a sensor capable of detecting the position of a satellite, and a standard computer that can be used for satellites in geosynchronous orbit and low Earth orbit.

The Ministry of Science, ICT and Future Planning (MSIP) announced on Feb. 15 that a satellite On-Board Computer (OBC) developed by Asia Pacific Aerospace Incorporated and a satellite attitude control sensor developed by FIBERPRO are scheduled to be featured in next-gen small satellites in 2017, after passing ground simulation tests.

The new OBC is a computer that processes data from satellites and controls the attitude and orbit of satellites, a core device for localizing satellite technology. It can process three times as fast as existing ones using a LEON processor that is utilized in the latest satellites deployed by the E.U. It has also standardized a communications method between modules in the computer and that between them and other devices in the satellite. 

The use of this technology will make it possible to reduce the time and costs needed for development. It is due to the fact that the manufacture of a satellite OBC could be done by combining and re-configurating used modules with necessary functions, without developing a new OBC. 

The new optical gyroscope, a sensor that can detect the rotation of a satellite, is a core component related to attitude control and navigation. The sensor is utilized to control the attitude of a satellite for terrestrial observation using a camera in the satellite. In particular, it is necessary to secure technical skills for the device, since it is likely to be used for military purposes. The export and import of optical gyroscopes is strictly monitored as a result.

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