Satellite Digital Imaging System
Encyclopedia
The Satellite Digital Imaging System (SDIS) is a simple system composed of Commercial Off-the-Shelf (COTS) hardware and custom integration software, which allows the operator to transmit digital photos from an aircraft in flight to a ground station. It is currently used by the US Civil Air Patrol
(CAP) for domestic search and rescue
operations and commercial photography.
The SDIS consists essentially of connecting these three devices to one another. No hardware is physically installed in the aircraft.
The Satellite Digital Imaging System (SDIS) was demonstrated successfully in the search and recovery efforts following hurricanes Katrina and Rita in 2005.
Disadvantages
Civil Air Patrol
Civil Air Patrol is a Congressionally chartered, federally supported, non-profit corporation that serves as the official civilian auxiliary of the United States Air Force . CAP is a volunteer organization with an aviation-minded membership that includes people from all backgrounds, lifestyles, and...
(CAP) for domestic search and rescue
Search and rescue
Search and rescue is the search for and provision of aid to people who are in distress or imminent danger.The general field of search and rescue includes many specialty sub-fields, mostly based upon terrain considerations...
operations and commercial photography.
Components
- Nikon D100Nikon D100The Nikon D100 is a discontinued 6-megapixel digital single-lens reflex camera designed for professionals and advanced hobbyists. It was introduced on February 21, 2002 at the PMA Annual Convention and Trade Show as a direct competitor to the Canon EOS D60...
digital SLR camera.
- Panasonic Toughbook laptop computer with SDIS software installed.
- Satellite telephone.
The SDIS consists essentially of connecting these three devices to one another. No hardware is physically installed in the aircraft.
Operation
Prior to takeoff, the operator connects the laptop to the Web Mission Information Reporting System (WMIRS) and obtains a mission identifier. During flight, photos are downloaded to the laptop computer and e-mailed to the customer or CAP base using the satellite phone. Images are also captured to a memory card in the digital camera, and may be edited or uploaded to the WMIRS after landing.The Satellite Digital Imaging System (SDIS) was demonstrated successfully in the search and recovery efforts following hurricanes Katrina and Rita in 2005.
Advantages / Disadvantages
Advantages- Near Real-Time
- Low Cost
- Multi-facet Use
Disadvantages
- Unreliable (If high cloud-cover is present satellite acquisition is difficult)
- Slow Upload (Due to Sat. Feed)
External links
- http://www.video.cap.gov/ SDIS page at the Civil Air Patrol website.
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