Virtual Phase Imager For Galileo

In 1985 NASA will launch a Galileo spacecraft using a new generation slow-scan planetary imaging system based on a recently developed single-phase charge-coupled device (CCD) sensor. This paper presents the fundamentals of operation of this new technology called "Virtual Phase" as used in Galileo. The design and operation of an 800 x 800 Virtual Phase CCD is described, and performance parameters as well as advantages and limitations are discussed.