About our Nano Satellite
“EYE”
This will be the STAR SPHERE project’s first satellite launched to unleash space perspectives and make them available to everyone. By using the shooting simulator and operating the satellite with simple controls while viewing live images in real time, users will be able to capture the Earth’s expressive landscapes and stunning scenery, sunrises as seen from space, and diverse vistas of the Earth, Moon, and stars, with free control over the composition, camerawork, and camera settings.
Spec
- Size
- 6U
- Orbital altitude
- 500-600km
- Onboard camer
- Full-frame camera made by Sony
- Camera lens
- 28-135mm, F4
- ① Star tracker to measure attitude
- ② Antenna for communication when the satellitepasses over a ground station, etc
- ③ Solar sensors to measure attitude against the sun’s position
- ④ Camera and lens made by Sony capable of shooting 4K video and still images
- ⑤ Main on board computer (MOBC)
- ⑥ Thruster with water as a propellant to raise the orbital altitude in order to extend the satellite’s lifetime, etc
- ⑦ GPS antenna to measure the satellite’s position
- ⑧ Solar array wings generate photovoltaic power to supply electricity in battery.
Main Features
Equipped with a full-frame camera made by Sony
Just like when using a digital single-lens reflex camera, users will be able to adjust settings such as sensitivity, aperture, and shutter speed at their discretion to control photo and video shooting effects.
Integration with a shooting simulator
The shooting simulator will enable intuitive execution of tasks such as operating the space camera, setting up shooting sequence, and reserving shooting sessions, making it easy to plan shots of the Earth, star-filled skies, and other diverse subjects
Simulator
The STAR SPHERE satellite will circle the Earth about 15-16 times per day. With the shooting simulator to be developed by STAR SPHERE, users will be able to confirm when and where the satellite is traveling, as well as to try out satellite angles of view and camera settings in advance. This will make it possible to create compositions and devise camerawork from the space perspectives of diverse locations on Earth, night and day, and the Sun, Moon, and other celestial bodies.
Through the shooting simulator, users will be able to confirm the images that they want to shoot. Alternatively, while following the satellite’s orbit using the simulator, they may discover unexpected views of the Earth and space.
Satellite and Management
Sony is partnering with the University of Tokyo and JAXA to develop and operate the satellite and ground systems as well as commercialize the space inspiration project.
Sony Group
- Development of satellite mission
- Construction of overall systems including the simulator and ground systems
- Operation and control of the satellite
- Commercialization of the space inspiration project
University of Tokyo
- Development of satellite engine chamber based on past work developing ultrasmall probes and nanosatellites
- Development of propulsion system based on results of verification of water-powered engine
JAXA
- Technical and project development support leveraging experience with satellite development/operation and various space projects