Payload / v1 in progress
Science Camera Payload
A camera payload that measures NDVI and RBD to track vegetation health and oceanic algal blooms.
What it does
The payload is the reason OSUSat flies. It captures Earth imagery for climate science. It measures NDVI and RBD to detect vegetation health and oceanic algal blooms, and it observes cloud formations. Captures are gated by the ADCS “within pointing cone” flag, so images are only taken when the camera is aimed at the ground.
Data path
Images are split into chunks, CRC-checked and handed to the OBC over CAN for storage and downlink.
Status
v1 adds a camera filter-switching mechanism driven by a TB6612FNG; its hardware is designed and a production package is ready. Software, the block diagram and integration are still open. v2 moves to a dual-camera design.