Selection of an aeroplane for the operation of the EARSEC-SAR sensor
The Joint Research Centre of the European Commission has published an invitation to tender for the provision of a suitable aeroplane for the operation of the EARSEC-SAR sensor. The aim of the EARSEC (European Airborne Remote Sensing Capabilities) project is to bring together the necessary resources to support airborne remote sensing campaigns making operational use of advanced sensors. The Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) with dual polarized frequencies (bands C and L) is amongst these sensors. The EARSEC project must select a suitable platform (aeroplane) for the installation and operational use of the EARSEC-SAR sensor. The installation of the SAR sensor may require major or minor modifications to an aeroplane depending on the type chosen and on the technical solutions adopted for the installation. The most likely solution will involve either the use of a pod (preferably precertified) or a special belly-mounting installation under the fuselage. If the installation is not precertified, eventual modifications to the aeroplane will require certification by the competent aeronautical authorities. The aircraft will be made available by a specific agreement, the details and conditions of which will be specified in the tender documentation. For further information, please contact: European Commission Joint Research Centre Mr R. G. Crandon TP 441 I-21020 Ispra Tel. +39-332-789828; Fax +39-332-785988