Ascending Node and Pinkmatter join forces to enhance earth observation imaging
by Clarence Oxford
Los Angeles CA (SPX) Nov 21, 2024
Ascending Node Technologies, a leader in mission management solutions, and Pinkmatter, known for its expertise in satellite sensor calibration and image processing, have announced a strategic partnership aimed at boosting the accuracy and reliability of Earth observation (EO) missions in low Earth orbit (LEO).
The collaboration will enable satellites, moving at speeds of 29,000 kilometers per hour, to utilize Ascending Node Technologies’ Spaceline suite. This web-based platform offers data analysis, geometrics, and visualization tools that allow satellite teams to simulate and rehearse fly-over missions weeks or even months before capturing target-specific imagery.
Once data is collected, Pinkmatter’s cloud-based FarEarth software steps in to process the raw satellite data. This system calibrates sensors, corrects the data, and converts it into map-ready images stored in an easily accessible archive.
The combined precision of Spaceline’s scheduling capabilities with FarEarth’s advanced image processing ensures that observation missions achieve the scientific accuracy needed. This synergy provides satellite teams with the tools to monitor satellite performance continuously and create reliable imagery products for critical applications.
“This collaboration between Ascending Node and Pinkmatter equips EO missions with the tools to manage and execute precision operations,” said Sanford Selznick, chief software architect at Ascending Node Technologies. “Using Spaceline, teams can capitalize on split-second timing opportunities, ensuring optimal imagery capture as satellites scan the Earth’s surface at eight kilometers per second.”
Stefan de Klerk, Chief Commercial Officer of Pinkmatter, added, “Our alliance addresses the full spectrum of Earth observation mission needs – from planning to delivering high-quality image products ready for downstream analytics. FarEarth enables pre-processing at scale, an essential requirement for small satellite missions.”
With over a thousand observation satellites currently orbiting Earth, many face challenges such as miscalculated flight paths and operational errors, leading to missed targets or unusable imagery. These issues are particularly costly for missions requiring accurate data, such as monitoring environmental changes, agricultural trends, urban development, or strategic movements.
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