TopSat: low cost high-resolution imagery from space

TopSat is a mission to demonstrate the use of small low-cost platforms for high-resolution imaging and direct data dissemination to local users via the use of a fully mobile ground station. The main elements of the TopSat system are described including the high-performance imaging system, microsatellite platform, data-handling/downlink and ground station that will be used. Finally, the current status of the programme as of January 2003 is summarised.