The SURPRISE team first outlined the demonstrator’s architecture, its specifications and completed the design, also studying in detail the impact of SLM specifications and diffraction effects. All components were identified and procured, mostly among Commercial Off-The-Shelf (COTS) parts. Image simulations were used to assess the demonstrator’s expected performances, while reconstruction algorithms were developed with different approaches (Total Variation and deep learning) and their performances compared. A procedure to rework COTS SLM for operation in the MIR was consolidated. SLM operation was studied to outline the specifications for a space-oriented European SLM, able to operate also in the MIR. Current European SLM technology was tested in relevant environment.
In the second period, all sub-systems were constructed and the demonstrator assembled and comprehensively tested on different targets by acquiring CS measurements. Images were reconstructed from CS measurements by using the optimised algorithms, also with different compression ratios and super-resolution factors. EO applications that could most benefit from SURPRISE-like concept were identified - namely, fire monitoring and ocean colour –and user requirements used to outline two SURPRISE-like EO payloads, each targeting a specific application. CS-enabled encryption and on-board processing were studied. Development roadmaps for the European space-oriented SLM and for the SURPRISE-like payload were finally drafted.
The main results achieved at the end of the SURPRISE action include:
• state-of-the-art CS demonstrator with super-resolution up to 32x32 in the VNIR and MIR;
• detailed studies of SLM diffraction effects in the MIR;
• consolidated procedure for reworking COTS SLM;
• environmental testing on current European SLM technology and feasibility study with development roadmap for a European SLM for space;
• optimised reconstruction algorithms, with analysis to enable native encryption and on-board processing;
• two SURPRISE-like payload concepts, one for fire monitoring and the other for ocean colour – with relevant development roadmap.
Dissemination was achieved via: SURPRISE website and social media, 5 webinars with stakeholders (ESA, EUMETSAT, national Space Agencies of SURPRISE countries, end users communities), 4 project videos, participation to conferences with publication of 15 papers.
Exploitation was pursued for 3 identified key exploitable results (target scanning system, European SLM, CS demonstrator), with paths tailored to their different levels of innovation and maturity, with also the support of the H2020 Results Booster.
