BIRD (satellite)
BIRD is a satellite launched by ISRO in 2001 for DLR. This small boxlike system, with solar panel two collectors on stub wings, has remarkable fire-detection qualities. It hosts a two-channel infrared sensor system in combination with a Wide-Angle Optoelectronic Stereo Scanner. It also features a neuronal network classificator in orbit to reduce downlink bandwidth and cost.
The unique combination of a stereo camera and two infrared cameras gives the opportunity to acquire:
- More precise information about leaf mass and photosynthesis for the early diagnosis of vegetation condition and changes
- Real time discrimination between smoke and water clouds
The attitude&control system of the BIRD satellite was reused in the TET-1 satellite.Publications
O. Maibaum, T. Terzibaschian, "Lessons learned from the Object-Oriented Design of the BIRD Attitude Control System Software", 16th IFAC Symposium on Automatic Control in Aerospace, ACA'2004 Preprints, S. 156-161, St.Petersburg, 14–18 June 2004
