Earth Horizon Sensor
Description
The Pyxis Space Earth Horizon Sensor provides nadir-vector measurement for CubeSat attitude control using both visible (VIS) and infrared (IR) spectral observation. Detecting the Earth's limb in two spectral bands improves robustness compared to single-band sensors, allowing reliable operation across different lighting conditions including eclipse transitions. The sensor achieves Earth pointing accuracy of 1° and is housed in a 28 × 28 × 53 mm³ package weighing just 32 g — suitable for any CubeSat platform from 1U upward. It provides a cost-effective means of nadir stabilization for Earth observation, remote sensing, and communication missions where a constant Earth-pointing orientation is required. As part of the Pyxis Space ADCS product ecosystem, it interfaces seamlessly with the Pyxis Reaction Wheel, Sun Sensor, and Star Sensor systems for a complete attitude control solution. Priced at €6,000.
Specifications
| Dimensions | 28 × 28 × 53 mm³ |
|---|---|
| Mass | 32 g |
| Observation bands | Visible (VIS) and Infrared (IR) |
| Pointing accuracy | 1° Earth pointing |
| Price | €6,000 |
| Accuracy | 1° |
| Slew Rate | up to 2 °/s |
| Field of view | 80° x 120° IR |
| Field of view (2) | 92° x 114° VIS |
| Interface | CAN 2.0B |
| Supply voltage | +4.5 V to +12 V |
| Power | 200 mW |
| Operating temperature | -20 °C to +50 °C |
| Radiation | 10 kRad |
