Instrumentation
One Instrument, Two Vital Signs of the Earth
EDGE’s swath-mapping laser altimeter delivers unprecedented coverage with high accuracy to measure critical regions undergoing rapid change
EDGE is an efficient innovative implementation of mature technology using a proven measurement approach capable of high horizontal (< 3 m) and vertical (< 3 cm, low slope) accuracy.
Stable and Agile Spacecraft
Maxar is the ideal partner for space-based geodetic remote sensing - the EDGE mission benefits from the capabilities of the Maxar 500 bus as well as Maxar’s experience with precise surface mapping and targeting.
EDGE will fly on the Maxar 500 spacecraft, a mid-size platform based on its WorldView Legion (WVL) line, and EDGE will be operated as part of the WVL constellation." Link to launch.
Telescope
General Dynamics’ 1.2 m Be telescope
Lasers
Fibertek is providing high-efficiency, single-stage lasers
Key Mission Characteristics
Total wet mass
1038 kg (MEV)
Total power
1275 W (MEV)
Daily science data volume
300 GB (MEV)
ORBIT
390 km Sun-synchronous dawn/dusk with seasonal exact repeat
DURATION
2 years
Expendables
5 years