Study of a preliminary value-cost model of Earth Observation (EO) satellites operating in Very Low Earth Orbit (VLEO) and Low Earth Orbit (LEO) for an Ocean Cleanup Organisation.

Abstract

An average of 8 million tonnes of plastics enter the ocean each year. This the-sis means to identify solutions to some of the needs for an Ocean Cleanup Organisation using Earth observation satellites in low orbits. The study analyses several organisations in the sector and the current State of the Art of Earth observation used for marine activities. An estimation of the require-ments and costs for these potential missions has been evaluated, concluding that these organisations cannot afford the whole mission’s cost. The objective of the thesis is to give basic information for planning on how to start using Earth observation for these organisations. This project also includes a preliminary study of a value-cost model on satellite missions, and an extrapolationof the study into other markets. The technology used by them is in its early stages, but innovative ideas are emerging. Improving satellite imagery for detecting marine debris is required. At this moment, a combination with aerial imagery may seem the best option in terms of costs and technology.