In the user ground segment, CS works at all levels of the processing chain, from request to data access

The programs covered are in the field of Earth observation, science, or telecommunications. The user ground segment comprises the following three functions:

• Mission programming
• Management and optimization of user requests
• Data processing and transmission

The first two functions can be grouped together in a center called the Mission Center.

CS has worked in Mission Centers for over 20 years via participation in the SPOT and HELIOS1 programs and more recently in the HELIOS 2 user ground component and the development of the HELIOS 2 mission management unit. Our participation in early phases of programs and operational activities further enriches our knowledge of operator needs.

CS is now project manager of the programming chain for PLEIADES, supporting thes major program with its abilities to manager a dual mission to respond to military and civilian needs. The key elements of this type of program are:

• User interface
• Planning functions
• Programming
• All these entities rely on mission-oriented algorithm services for geometric analysis and feasibility.

On the processing chain, CS leverages its expertise in image quality and processing and more generally scientific data processing, for example developing the QIV (center of image quality for the Végétation instrument), GEQI Hélios II (image quality expertise group) and now, in partnership, the ICCPléiades (Image Calibration Center) for the CNES.
 

In image processing, CS activities cover the following phases:

• acquisition (telemetry acquisition and decommutation),
• pre-processing (calibration, radiometric and geometric corrections, restoration, rectification),
• analysis and processing of image data (indexing/archiving, visualization, segmentation, extraction of information, merging, 3D reconstruction, photo-interpretation, etc.)

Scientific data processing activities consist of following data throughout its life cycle, in particular through the following phases:

• collection and preparation of information necessary for the mission,
• acquisition of data from on-board or ground experiments,
• describing and formatting data to make it sustainable over time,
• archiving this data in the relatively long term,
• processing and transformation of the data,
• on-demand dissemination of data using appropriate secure means,
• help with using the data,
• data-curation: studies on conservation of data and related metadata.

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