Real-Time Earth Observation
Satellite Constellation
with Embedded AI
A comprehensive engineering study for deploying a LEO constellation capable of sub-meter imagery, on-board AI inference, and real-time emergency alerting.
End-to-End Data Pipeline
From orbital image capture to real-time AI-powered emergency alerting
Image Acquisition
High-res telephoto camera captures sub-meter imagery from 500km LEO orbit
GSD 0.3–1mFPGA Preprocessing
Xilinx Virtex-5QV handles real-time image preprocessing and compression
10W, Rad-HardAI Inference
NVIDIA Jetson Thor performs on-board deep learning for anomaly detection
275 TOPSKa-Band Downlink
High-throughput Ka-band transmitter sends prioritized data to ground
1.2 GbpsGround Stations
Global network of ground stations receives and routes satellite data
Global NetworkAI Alert Center
Real-time emergency alerts dispatched for detected events and anomalies
<60 min LatencyOrbital Parameters
Imaging Payload Comparison
Comparing the leading space-grade cameras for Earth observation missions
WorldView Legion
MaxarHighest commercial resolution with 15 cm pan-sharpened imagery. 15 revisits/day via mixed orbits.
SkySat
Planet LabsExcellent resolution-to-cost ratio. 10–12 revisits/day, video capture capability.
NewSat (Mk V)
SatellogicMost affordable option with unique hyperspectral capability. 50+ satellite constellation.
Gen-3
BlackSkyLatest-gen imaging with 60-min delivery pipeline. AI-integrated platform.
NAOMI
AirbusHeritage SPOT-6/7 imager. Wide 60km swath for large-area coverage.
On-Board AI Pipeline
Heterogeneous computing architecture: radiation-hardened FPGA + commercial AI accelerator with shielding
Xilinx Virtex-5QV
FPGA PreprocessingRadiation-hardened FPGA for real-time image preprocessing, compression, and data reduction before AI inference.
NVIDIA Jetson Thor
AI Inference EngineSupercomputer-class AI processor for on-board deep learning inference. Enables real-time anomaly detection and classification.
Processing Pipeline
Alternative Processors
Satellites vs Resolution
Walker Delta constellation sizing for different resolution targets at 500km LEO
Energy Consumption Analysis
Detailed power breakdown per satellite for each resolution scenario
Power Generation System
GaAs triple-junction solar arrays with lithium-ion battery backup for eclipse periods
Financial Assessment
Comprehensive 5-year cost projection for each constellation scenario with hourly revisit capability
Side-by-Side Analysis
Radar chart and table comparing all three constellation configurations across key performance metrics
Phased Deployment Strategy
A pragmatic 3-phase approach from moderate resolution proof-of-concept to ultimate high-resolution constellation
Moderate Resolution Deployment
Medium Resolution Upgrade
High Resolution Constellation
Key Conclusions
Resolution–Coverage Trade-off
Higher resolution means narrower swath, requiring exponentially more satellites for the same revisit rate.
NVIDIA Thor Dominates Power
The AI processor (~100W) is the primary power consumer on moderate-resolution satellites, requiring careful thermal and power management.
Phased Deployment Is Optimal
Starting with moderate resolution ($1.7B) validates the concept before committing to the $18.3B high-resolution constellation.
Launch Vehicle Choice Matters
SpaceX Falcon 9 rideshare is ~4.5× cheaper per kg than Rocket Lab, saving billions at constellation scale.
Feasibility Study · May 2026 · All calculations documented in engineering workbook