The TerraSAR-X Ground Segment

Abstract

TerraSAR-X, the first national German remote sensing satellite, was launched June 15th, 2007. It carries an X-band high-resolution synthetic aperture radar instrument featuring imaging modes like StripMap, ScanSAR, and, particularly SpotLight in a variety of different polarization modes. Primary mission goal is the provision of both science and commercial users with a variety of products from advanced SAR modes. The TerraSAR-X Ground Segment, which is provided by the German Aerospace Center (DLR), constitutes the central element for controlling and operating the TerraSAR-X satellite, for calibrating its SAR instrument, and for archiving the SAR data as well as generating and distributing the basic data products. This paper depicts the ground segment layout and describes its major elements. The ordering and product generation workflow is presented. It introduces the applied pre-launch integration, testing, verification and validation approach, a major key to the completion not only of the SAR technical verification program but also the operational qualification of the ground segment itself within the commissioning phase.