The DMC is a unique earth observation (EO) satellite constellation that delivers high frequency imaging anywhere on the globe from a long established and growing collection of satellites.
The constellation is coordinated by DMCii to deliver high quality commercial earth imaging services.
Daily Imaging Capability
The first generation DMC was launched in 2002-3 to create the first constellation, designed specifically to deliver daily repeat high resolution imagery. Four satellites in phased sun-synchronous orbit delivered 650km wide multispectral imagery with a 32metre ground sample distance (GSD). An additional satellite was launched in 2005, providing even greater imaging capacity, and a third 32metre sensor was added in 2012.
Enhanced Resolution
The second generation of enhanced DMC satellites (launched in 2009) provide hugely increased imaging capacity, retaining the original 650km swath width, but with twice the pixel density at 22metre GSD. The radiometry has been greatly enhanced to provide improved MTF and S/N. The satellites are routinely cross-calibrated within 1% of Landsat. Data continuity was assured with the launch of additional capacity in 2014/5, which added 60 million km2 of imagery per day.
Very High Resolution
The DMC delivers Very High Resolution (VHR) capability with 2.5metre GSD panchromatic and 5metre GSD multispectral imagery.
Background
In addition to commercial activity, the DMC actively works within the International Charter for ‘Space and Major Disasters’ to provide free satellite imagery for humanitarian use in the event of major international disasters, such as tsunamis, hurricanes, fires and flooding. The DMC is represented by the UK Space Agency on the Charter Board and by DMCii in the Executive Secretariat.
The DMC satellites are designed and built by Surrey Satellite Technology Ltd (SSTL) www.sstl.co.uk. Each satellite is independently owned and controlled by a DMC Consortium member.
DMCii owns and operates its own satellites and coordinates DMC members’ satellites to provide a seamless imaging service.
