Remote sensing satellites that can operate at 200-450 km (124-280 miles) above the Earth’s surface are being developed under a European Union research initiative led by University of Manchester, UK.

Current satellites orbit at 500-800 km (310-497 miles) altitude, providing ground images with limited resolution and requiring the use of large telescopes. Lower orbit satellites can be designed with a smaller footprint and at lower cost, equipped with smaller telescopes producing higher quality images.

Artist's impression of a low Earth satellite. Credit: The University of Manchester/A Macario RojasTo counter the additional atmospheric drag at lower orbital altitudes, the researchers will develop and test advanced materials in a new ‘wind tunnel’ which mimics atmospheric conditions. Materials interactions with individual atoms of oxygen and other elements in the atmosphere can be evaluated at speeds of up to 8 km/second. Materials will also be tested on a real satellite launched into these lower orbits, and the craft is expected to demonstrate how atmospheric flow can be used to control its orientation.

An additional goal is development of experimental electric propulsion systems that use the residual atmosphere as propellant. This approach has the potential to keep the satellites in orbit indefinitely, despite the drag acting upon them.

Other research partners include Elecnor Deimos Satellite Systems, GomSpace AS, University of Stuttgart, Universitat Politecnica de Catalunya, University College London, The TechToybox, EuroConsult and concentris research management.