Astrium prepares Helios-2 follow-on.

EADS Astrium is studying the Zephir optical imaging satellite project as a follow-on to the current Helios-2. A mockup of the proposed platform was on display for the first time at the Paris Air Show. The first Helios-2 was launched in December 2004. It is slated to be joined by a second platform in 2009. The two spacecraft are designed to ensure a continuous supply of very-high-resolution imagery to the armed forces until 2014, though their operational life could well be much longer--up to 10-15 years. France has already started discussions with European partners on a future shared programme--the multinational space based imaging system for surveillance, reconnaissance and observation (Musis). Six countries have already approved the concept--Belgium, France, Germany, Greece, Italy and Spain. Two industry teams, led by EADS Astrium and Thales Alenia Space, are already working on system design studies. France's Cnes space agency is workingon the optical space component. The performance of the Helios successor could be increased from very high resolution (40-45cm) to extremely high resolution (20-25cm).

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