Xenics Imaging Sensor in NASA JPL and ESA Venus Missions

Xenics, a prominent player in advanced imaging technology and a subsidiary of Exosens, has entered into a collaboration with the German Aerospace Centre (DLR.de) for the NASA/JPL VERITAS and ESA EnVision missions. These missions, namely the Venus Emissivity, Radio science, InSAR, Topography, And Spectroscopy (VERITAS) mission and the ESA EnVision mission, are set to revolutionize our comprehension of Venus by generating high-resolution maps of its surface and delving into its geological history.

A pivotal aspect of these missions involves the incorporation of Xenics’ cutting-edge Bobcat Short-Wave Infrared (SWIR) imaging sensor. The Xenics Bobcat stands out as a top-tier infrared imaging sensor meticulously crafted for harsh environments, including outer space. By merging advanced imaging technology with sturdy engineering, the Bobcat ensures optimal performance in challenging conditions. With a resolution of 640 x 512, it facilitates high-detail imaging and boasts radiation-hardened technology, enabling it to endure the rigorous radiation and thermal fluctuations encountered during space expeditions.

The Bobcat sensor assumes a critical role in furnishing imaging capabilities, empowering VERITAS to capture intricate surface features of Venus even in adverse circumstances. For instance, the Bobcat 640 camera is underpinned by an internally developed, temperature-stabilized InGaAs detector featuring a 640 x 512 pixel resolution. This camera offers a rapid frame rate of 100 Hz, is equipped with a CameraLink or GigE Vision interface, and is characterized by its lightweight design and low power consumption.

Moreover, a visible enhanced short-wave infrared (vSWIR) option is available to extend the wavelength response into the visible spectrum. The cameras come with standard on-board image correction functionalities such as non-uniformity correction (NUC), bad pixel replacement (BPR), and automatic gain control (AGC), enhancing the overall imaging quality and accuracy.

In essence, the collaboration between Xenics and the German Aerospace Centre for the VERITAS and EnVision missions signifies a significant stride in the realm of space exploration and imaging technology. By leveraging Xenics’ state-of-the-art Bobcat SWIR imaging sensor, these missions are poised to unlock new insights into Venus’ surface characteristics and geological evolution, paving the way for groundbreaking discoveries in planetary science.