The Hyperspectral Imager for the Coastal Ocean (HICO) on the International Space Station

Abstract

The HICO (Hyperspectral Imager for the Coastal Ocean) program is the first demonstration of environmental characterization of the coastal zone using a spaceborne maritime hyperspectral imager. HICO is sponsored by the Office of Naval Research as an Innovative Naval Prototype (INP), and will demonstrate coastal products including water clarity, bottom types, bathymetry and on-shore vegetation maps. As an INP, HICO will also demonstrate innovative ways to reduce the cost and schedule of this space mission by adapting proven aircraft imager architecture and using Commercial Off-The-Shelf (COTS) components where possible.