| 1. |
Are the RADARSAT-2 data encrypted? |
Yes, RADARSAT-2 downlink data will be encrypted. |
| 2. |
When are Advance Reception Plans and Reception Schedules distributed to a network station? |
Advance Reception Plan files will be distributed once per day around 18:00 UTC.
Reception Schedule files will be distributed twice per day around 20:00 UTC and 09:00 UTC. |
| 3. |
Can my RADARSAT-1 antenna receive RADARSAT-2? |
A RADARSAT-1 antenna can receive RADARSAT-2 data, but the data cannot be processed without a RADARSAT-2 processing system. |
| 4. |
What are the benefits of dual channel downlink? |
All RADARSAT-2 data types can be received with a single channel. Each data acquisition is downlinked on a single channel. A second channel allows a higher overall volume of data to be downlinked. |
| 5. |
Do I need to update my RADARSAT-1 antenna for dual-channel downlinks? |
Because the RADARSAT-2 single channel downlink frequency is exactly the same as RADARSAT-1, any existing RADARSAT-1 antenna can receive single channel RADARSAT-2 data. Dual channel capability is not a RADARSAT-2 network station requirement.
The satellite transmitter can be configured to use one channel only, but this means the full transmitter power is provided to this one channel at the expense of downlink capacity. Having the second channel offers some advantages, for example:
- The second channel allows a higher volume of data to be downlinked.
- Data acquisitions can be downlinked in real-time at the same time that data acquired earlier in the orbit is being downlinked.
If your network station has a single channel reception system, but you want dual channel capability, the station must be upgraded. |
| 6. |
What is the minimum size of dish required to receive RADARSAT-2 data? |
MDA recommends a minimum antenna system G/T of 29 dB/K to receive the RADARSAT-2 downlink. This typically corresponds to an antenna size of about 5 m or greater, depending on the antenna manufacturer. The actual required size will depend on the performance of the antenna system, the presence of a radome, the typical weather conditions, minimum required antenna elevation, and required link margins.
RADARSAT-2 is also able to support smaller antenna systems with a system G/T of 26 dB/K (potentially as small as 3.6 m). In this case, only single channel downlink is possible. |
| 7. |
Who is the manufacturer of the RADARSAT-2 ground segment systems? |
MDA is the manufacturer of the RADARSAT-2 ground segment systems. |
| 8. |
Are there opportunities for other manufacturers to develop RADARSAT-2 SAR processors? |
With its significant investment in the RADARSAT-2 program, MDA has opted to remain the only manufacturer to offer RADARSAT-2 SAR processors. |
| 9. |
Can I process RADARSAT-2 data with my current RADARSAT-1 SAR processor or do I need an upgrade? |
RADARSAT-2 data can only be processed using a RADARSAT-2 processor. If you have a RADARSAT-1 processor, you will need an upgrade. |
| 10. |
Do I need to purchase the whole system from MDA or can I just get the essential components for RADARSAT-2 processing? |
RADARSAT-2 processing systems and deliveries can be tailored to suit the unique requirements of each network station. |
| 11. |
Do I need to get the catalogue and archiving software from MDA even though I already have these systems? |
RADARSAT-2 specific functions can be integrated with existing archive systems (e.g., robotic tape libraries). Existing order management systems and delivery mechanisms can also be retained. Catalogue updates can be provided to existing catalogue systems. |
| 12. |
RADARSAT-1 capabilities were integrated into my existing system; can RADARSAT-2 also be integrated? |
It is possible to integrate RADARSAT-2 into existing systems. Systems and deliveries can be tailored to suit the unique requirements of each network station. |
