Spacecraft Camera Requirements for Diverse Mission Applications

The Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL) is seeking information from spacecraft operators, mission planners, and system integrators regarding camera requirements for space missions. The goal is to inform the development of flexible, modular spacecraft camera architectures and support subsequent vendor engagement. The laboratory aims to leverage commercial ecosystems, facilitate interoperability with commercial-off-the-shelf (COTS) processing solutions, and reduce development risk and cost. The RFI focuses on the Command and Data Handling (C&DH) aspects of the camera, including interfaces, protocols, storage, and other relevant specifications. Key areas of interest include: • Mission applications such as science imaging, autonomous navigation, proximity operations, and stellar navigation • Preferred data interfaces and protocols, including Ethernet, MIPI CSI-2, and CoaXPress • Data handling and processing capabilities, including resolution, frame rate, and embedded storage • Physical constraints such as size, weight, and power consumption • Management and control capabilities, including standard control API and firmware updates The information gathered will guide camera architecture definition and may lead to a future RFP soliciting camera development or procurement from qualified vendors.