One duty of astronauts orbiting the Earth is to photograph landmarks, meteorological events, and other interesting features of Earth. While such photographs are critical to completing a mission’s objectives, identifying the target and properly scheduling the photograph is a time-intensive process. This technology is a software application capable of identifying and highlighting Earth-based targets and scheduling times the target will be in view. The cumulative result is increased efficiency in the photography process, decreasing disruptions to astronauts’ other duties. Development of this technology could result in increased efficiency in the photographic and archival processes, allowing astronauts to spend their time in orbit more efficiently.
This technology improves the efficiency of an astronaut’s work by simplifying the process of photographing Earth-based targets. Software first identifies the target to be photographed and lists the times the target will be in view. The software also displays a view of the highlighted target that matches the view of the astronaut, making target identification fast and efficient.
The software is easily compatible with tablet computers, greatly reducing the space requirements for this technology. As such, this technology is a user-friendly, time saving device for astronauts that does not require elaborate hardware or devices and can integrate seamlessly with existing equipment. Use of this technology can help astronauts make more efficient use of their time in space, allowing them to devote more time to other scientific pursuits and mission objectives.
Tech Ventures Reference: IR CU16210