SPIN-SCAN IMAGING–APPLICATION TO PLANETARY MISSIONS

Spin-scan imaging is a technique whereby images are generated in a line-by-line fashion from a spinning spacecraft. The performance characteristics of the five spin-scan instruments operating in space and of those now being built are described. Based on the demonstrated performance of current spin-scan imagers, the important advantages offered by this technique are discussed. A systematic method for the parametric modeling of the spin-scan imager, scene, and spacecraft characteristics is described. To illustrate this process, the optimization of instrument parameters is detailed for an imager suitable for use on a spin-stabilized Jupiter orbiter spacecraft. The significant advantages of the spin-scan imaging approach are summarized, with particular emphasis placed on planetary imaging.