S-Band Smallsat InSAR constellation for surface deformation science

Abstract

This paper describes the architecture of a longer wavelength, Smallsat SAR constellation of up to 12 satellites for rapid revisit surface deformation studies. The key to making such a constellation affordable is to lower launch costs, spacecraft costs, and instrument (SAR) costs. The first two objectives can be achieved using an ESPA-ring compatible, Smallsat spacecraft. The third objective requires a SAR instrument sized to fit the mass and volume constraints imposed by such a spacecraft. Current state-of-the-art in miniaturization of electronics means that the radar transmit, receive and data handling functions can easily be implemented in a compact, single-string, low mass solution. The most significant challenge in designing a SAR to fit the Smallsat paradigm is in the dimensions of the antenna.