When it comes to satellite image pre-processing, precision is everything. FarEarth transforms raw telemetry data into scientifically accurate image products. To do this efficiently, we need your raw data.
What is raw data?
Raw data is the unprocessed, unaltered data from your satellite. It’s not just pixels; this telemetry stream contains timestamps, ephemeris, attitude, temperature, pixel values, sensor temperatures and so forth.
This data is not just numbers; it sets a foundation for scientific accuracy. It tells us where your satellite is in orbit, the satellite’s orientation, and how the sensor and satellite is performing.
Why giving us your raw data is ideal
We often receive data that has already been extracted or converted. While it is tempting to process, transform or filter your raw data, altered raw data for pre-processing can lead to:
- loss of scientific exactness
- degraded image quality and inconsistencies
- calibration challenges
- processing errors
- loss of critical metadata
What FarEarth does with raw data
We build a custom raw-to-Level 0 decoder for your satellite using your raw data specification or Interface Control Document (ICD).
During in-orbit calibration we use your raw data to:
- characterise thermal and read-out noise
- identify anomalies
- build a sensor model
During processing we use your raw data to:
- determine your satellite’s position and orientation
- determine the exact location where every detector is pointing on Earth
- understand your sensor’s behaviour in orbit including movement and jitter
- use the original sensor reading for precise radiometric calibration
FarEarth createsLevel 0 reports for every raw dataset. This helps you visualise your satellite’s behaviour and debug issues, especially during commissioning.
By providing raw data, you enable FarEarth to produce accurate, reliable, and scientifically sound image products.
