SPACE
Our technologies support satellite orientation, pointing and observation systems by providing ultra-precise and stable measurement. They are designed to withstand the constraints of the space environment and ensure performance throughout the entire mission lifetime.
Encoders for space mechanisms (SADM, CMG, AOCS)
Our encoders for space mechanisms are designed for critical orientation and pointing systems (AOCS), where accuracy and reliability are essential to mission success. Codechamp high-precision optical encoders provide extremely fine and stable angular measurement, essential for SADM (Solar Array Drive Mechanisms), CMG (Control Moment Gyros) and stabilisation systems. Thanks to their high resolution and excellent repeatability, they significantly improve satellite stability, instrument pointing accuracy and overall mission performance. Designed to withstand the severe constraints of the space environment (vacuum, radiation, thermal cycling), our sensors ensure reliable operation throughout the entire lifetime of the satellite. Our solutions benefit from proven flight heritage, demonstrating their robustness and performance under real operating conditions.
CMGs for Pléiades, Astro-G, SPOT 6, SPOT 7 and CSO Earth Observation Satellites
The Pléiades, Astro-G, SPOT 6, SPOT 7 and CSO observation satellites integrate CODECHAMP optical encoders within their CMGs (Control Moment Gyroscopes), actuators used to precisely control the satellite’s attitude and orientation. On Pléiades, for example, these gyroscopic actuators enable the satellite to tilt by up to 60° in approximately 25 seconds, allowing its instrument to be rapidly pointed towards a specific observation area. In this type of mechanism, optical encoders provide precise measurement of the angular position of the gimbal axes, which is essential for CMG control and therefore for the satellite’s pointing accuracy, stability and agility under the demanding conditions of the space environment.
SADMs for Iridium NEXT, Globalstar 2 and O3b Telecommunications Constellations
The Iridium NEXT, Globalstar 2 and O3b telecommunications constellations integrate CODECHAMP optical encoders within their SADMs (Solar Array Drive Mechanisms), which are responsible for orienting the satellites’ solar arrays towards the Sun. A SADM enables the solar array to rotate independently of the satellite’s orientation and relies on a position-measurement system to precisely control its angular position. In this type of application, optical encoders provide accurate measurement of the mechanism’s angular position, which is essential for solar array control and for optimizing power generation throughout the mission despite the constraints of vacuum, thermal variations and prolonged operation in orbit.
Antenna and payload pointing systems
Our position sensors for space pointing systems enable extremely precise control of antennas and payloads, which are key elements for mission performance in orbit. Integrated into antenna pointing mechanisms and optical systems, they provide fine, stable and repeatable angular measurement, essential for ensuring communication quality and the accuracy of Earth observation. Their high resolution and excellent repeatability help reduce pointing errors and optimise system stability, even during dynamic movements. Designed to operate in constrained environments (vacuum, radiation, thermal cycling), our sensors offer long-term reliability. They directly contribute to improving signal quality, acquisition accuracy and the overall performance of instruments, whether for telecommunications, imaging or scientific observation.
Rosetta Space Probe
The Rosetta space probe integrated CODECHAMP optical encoders within several of its onboard mechanisms to provide precise position control. Launched in 2004, Rosetta travelled nearly 6.4 billion kilometres before reaching comet 67P/Churyumov-Gerasimenko in 2014, becoming the first spacecraft to rendezvous with a comet. On this type of long-duration mission, optical encoders make it possible to precisely determine the position of moving components and ensure their reliable operation under the particularly demanding conditions of the space environment, including vacuum, thermal variations, the need for long-term reliability and successful operation after approximately ten years of travel. Mechanisms developed for Rosetta also relied on optical sensing systems to monitor and control their operating positions.
Instrument mechanisms and observation systems (EO / SAR)
In Earth observation satellites, our encoders for space instruments ensure extremely precise and stable positioning of critical mechanisms, directly linked to the quality of the data collected. They are integrated into EO (Earth Observation) and SAR (Synthetic Aperture Radar) systems, where even slight position variations or instability can significantly degrade image resolution and reliability. Thanks to their high resolution and excellent repeatability, our sensors help reduce jitter and position errors, thereby ensuring a significant improvement in image quality and measurement accuracy. Designed to operate in constrained space environments (vacuum, radiation, thermal cycling), they provide long-term stability and reliability. Our solutions directly contribute to the scientific and operational performance of observation missions.
Space actuators and critical onboard systems
Our space-grade potentiometers are designed for actuators and onboard systems requiring maximum robustness and flawless service continuity. They provide reliable and stable position measurement, even under degraded conditions, with high tolerance to mechanical, thermal and radiation constraints. These sensors are used in robotic arm actuators for in-orbit handling operations, as well as in thruster arm control systems, where precision and repeatability are essential for motion control and platform stability. Their simple and proven architecture supports redundancy and ensures safe long-term operation. Designed for environments where maintenance is not possible, they are an ideal solution for critical space systems.
