Microcontroller Based Embedded check-out Instrument for Met./Electro optical Payloads

摘要

Space Applications Centre, ISRO has designed, developed and realized several Metrological Satellite sensors, which are operational payloads on board Satellites like INSAT-3A, Kalpana etc. These sensors have the capability to image the Earth disc from Geostationary Satellite platforms in multiple bands of the EM spectrum, including Thermal Infrared. Characterization of the Meteorological/Electro optical payload requires elaborate customized test setups on ground. In-house developed payload-specific Check-out instruments provide all electrical stimuli needed for the operation of the Payload and monitoring of Payload health status during various phases of the payload development, testing and performance evaluation. The checkout instrument is also used for autonomous testing of payload while integrating with spacecraft. The paper describes the design of the Instrument developed using micro-controller as a core device and LAN port for communication. The Application software is developed in Microsoft Visual C++ and embedded software is developed in NBEclipse and Dynamic C [embedded OS]. The front panel for the instrument is GUI based commanding and status monitoring interface for the Payload. This instrument provides Telecommands to the payload in a close-loop mode. The modularity and flexibility of the instrument will enhance its capability to cater to the requirements of different payloads.