BIRD (satellite)

BIRD (Bispectral and Infrared Remote Detection) is a satellite launched by ISRO in 2001 for DLR. This small (92 kg) boxlike system, with solar panels and two collectors on stub wings, has remarkable fire-detection qualities. It hosts a two-channel infrared sensor system in combination with a Wide-Angle Optoelectronic Stereo Scanner (WAOSS). It also features a neuronal network classificator in orbit to reduce downlink bandwidth and cost.

The unique combination of a stereo camera and two infrared cameras gives the opportunity to acquire:


 * More precise information about leaf mass and photosynthesis is needed for the early diagnosis of vegetation conditions and changes.
 * Real-time discrimination between smoke and water clouds

The attitude and control system of the BIRD satellite was reused in the TET-1 satellite.

Publications
A BIRD satellite architecture (in German) (pdf)

O. Maibaum, T. Terzibaschian, "Lessons learned from the Object-Oriented Design of the BIRD Attitude Control System Software", 16th IFAC Symposium on Automatic Control in Aerospace (ACA'2004), ACA'2004 Preprints (Vol.I), S. 156-161, St.Petersburg, 14–18 June 2004