Buzz
With Sony's artificial satellite, everyone can now enjoy the beauty of space.
Sony has partnered with the University of Tokyo and the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) to develop a satellite under the Star Sphere project. Their goal is to equip a full-frame camera onto the satellite, enabling anyone to capture high-quality 4K footage and images of space and Earth.
Everyone can now enjoy the beauty of space.
The Star Sphere project has been strong since 2017, and by 2020, Sony gave the green light for commercialization. In 2021, the artificial satellite, along with the control software, was rapidly completed, ready for launch into space in 2022. Last month, Yoshihiro Nakanishi, Director of the Star Sphere Promotion Office, presented the project's concept.
According to him, an increasing number of businesses are entering the space industry. Sony has collaborated with the University of Tokyo and JAXA, aiming to provide experiences and services that shorten the distance between customers and space. The Japanese conglomerate hopes that anyone can easily operate the artificial satellite through a computer, enabling them to capture photos and shoot videos in space.
Sony's High-Quality Camera
Sony is responsible for the transmission department, which includes a full-frame mirrorless camera and remote-operated software system. The camera is fixed onto the satellite body and is capable of recording 4K footage. The University of Tokyo is developing propulsion systems and energy, while JAXA supports expertise in space-related aspects of the project.
Sony's satellite measures approximately 30cm vertically, relatively small, with 2 solar energy charging wings. It is scheduled to be launched into Earth's atmosphere at a distance of 500 to 600km. The orbit has not been determined yet but can orbit around the blue planet 15-16 times a day.
There will be 3 viewing modes: 'Earth' (overview of Earth's surface); 'Satellite' (clear view of the satellite's orbit to aim at desired shooting locations); and finally, 'Camera' to view the camera's perspective.
Scheduled Launch This Year
According to the business representative, Sony will launch the Star Sphere satellite in October/December 2022. The initial few months will be a stabilization period. In early 2023, the satellite imaging service will officially commence. However, the pricing for usage has not been decided yet. Sony says it will be at a 'reasonable' threshold and is still exploring the market.
One of the considerations involves establishing service terms to prevent customer misunderstandings. The product quality largely depends on the climate conditions, which Sony cannot control.
