Requirements to create a sensor model and driver

Image Labels & Label Dictionary

Sensor model parameters that can be adjusted on an observation-by-observation basis (summing mode, compression, subwindowing, focal settings, filter settings, etc.) are usually contained in the image labels.

In order to interpret the image labels we need a dictionary that defines what label values mean. Usually, this is a PDS Software Interface Specification (SIS).

Image Data

In order to test out the sensor model we need to have image data. If the sensor observed a body that has been previously observed, we can compare orthorectified image data against other data sets to determine sensor model accuracy. If the sensor observed a body that has not been previously observed, we can use limb imagery to determine sensor model accuracy.

SPICE Kernels

Lastly, we need SPICE kernels. ALE can be modified to get information from another source, but SPICE kernels are the current standard for planetary missions. We need the following information from the SPICE kernels:

• Focal length
• Detector boresight
• Detector element size
• Distortion model
• Sensor reference frames and rotations
• Target reference frames and rotation
• Sensor position
• Target position
• Sun position

More generally, we need these kernels:

• Sensor IK
• Spacecraft SCLK
• Sensor and spacecraft FK
• Sensor and spacecraft CK
• Target PCK or CK and FK (Usually the general solar system PCK and/or a satellite PCK)
• Leapsecond kernel (Usually the latest from NAIF)
• DSK (if applicable)