Geosynchronous space video systems

This paper describes the implementation and evolution of flight video systems used or planned for use on geosynchronous satellites. Six systems are described in this paper: four operational and two planned. Five of these systems are used to visually observe deployment of antennas or other deployable mechanisms. The images provided by these systems would be used to troubleshoot should any deployment issues arise. The sixth system was designed to take Earth images. Predominantly commercial parts have been used to reduce the cost of these systems while still meeting mission requirements. Image quality of these systems has been adequate for troubleshooting. Fortunately, deployment contingencies which would have required the camera capability have yet to occur. Adaptation of a borrowed standard telemetry transmitter to downlink the video data required some unusual communications engineering techniques. In addition, Mission planning had to consider the need to keep subjects in appropriate lighting conditions during deployments. Some flight images and/or videos are presented.