Airbus CO3D: AI-Powered, Laser-Linked Constellation for 50 cm Global 3D Mapping
CO3D comprises four identical S250-based satellites, each weighing about 250–300 kg with 100% electric propulsion, delivering ~50 cm spatial-resolution optical imagery. It aims to produce a global Digital Surface Model with ~1 m vertical accuracy and to map ~40 million km² of Earth’s land per year in 3D. The system targets roughly 90% of the globe’s land areas between ±70° latitude to be mapped within five years. Satellites operate in two pairs on opposite sides of Earth, with ~100 km separation in the same orbit plane to enable synchronized stereo imaging. The four-satellite launch is planned for 25 July 2025