ISO 26868-2009 (2012) PDF

Full title and description

ISO 26868:2009 — Space data and information transfer systems — Image data compression. Defines a data-compression algorithm and a segmented codestream format for two-dimensional digital spatial image data produced by spacecraft payload instruments; includes a corrected English version issued June 2012.

Abstract

Specifies an image-data compression method applicable to 2D spatial image data from payload instruments and describes how compressed data are formatted into segments to permit reliable decompression by ground systems. The standard highlights benefits such as reduced transmission bandwidth, reduced buffering and storage needs, and shorter data-transfer times.

General information

• Status: Published.
• Publication date: First published February 2009; corrected English version June 2012.
• Publisher: International Organization for Standardization (ISO).
• ICS / categories: 49.140 (Space data and information transfer systems).
• Edition / version: Edition 1 (2009), corrected version (en) 2012-06.
• Number of pages: 66.

Scope

Applies to onboard and ground processing for spacecraft image payloads where two-dimensional spatial image data require efficient, standardised compression and unambiguous framing for decompression. It is intended for use in space data and information transfer systems to ensure interoperable compressed-image exchange between missions and ground segments.

Key topics and requirements

• Specification of a compressed-image coding algorithm suitable for two-dimensional spatial image data.
• Definition of segment and codestream structures to enable reliable decompression on reception.
• Guidance on trade-offs between lossy and lossless operation modes appropriate to payload and mission objectives.
• Requirements to support reduced transmission bandwidth, buffering and storage needs for spaceborne image data.
• Conformance expectations for encoder/decoder interoperability within space data transfer systems.

Typical use and users

Used by spacecraft instrument engineers, onboard data-handling designers, satellite systems integrators, ground-segment software developers, mission operations and data-archive teams who need a standard method to compress, packetize and reliably deliver payload imagery for science, earth observation, reconnaissance and other remote-sensing applications.

Related standards

Commonly referenced alongside other image-compression and space-data standards such as CCSDS image-compression recommendations (e.g., CCSDS 122.0 family) and general image-coding standards like JPEG 2000 (ISO/IEC 15444 series), which cover alternative wavelet-based and file-format approaches for imagery. These documents can be used together when selecting or implementing compression solutions for spaceborne imagery.

Keywords

image compression, space data, payload instruments, codestream, segmentation, decompression, bandwidth reduction, onboard processing, ISO 26868

FAQ

Q: What is this standard?

A: ISO 26868:2009 specifies an image-data compression algorithm and the formatted segmentation of compressed image data for use in space data and information transfer systems; a corrected English version was issued in June 2012.

Q: What does it cover?

A: It covers the compression method for two-dimensional spatial image data from payload instruments and the way compressed data are organized into segments so receiving systems can decompress them reliably, with guidance on operational benefits like reduced bandwidth and storage.

Q: Who typically uses it?

A: Satellite and payload engineers, onboard/ground software developers, mission planners and data-archive managers who require standardized, interoperable image-compression and framing for space missions.

Q: Is it current or superseded?

A: As published, ISO 26868:2009 is a confirmed published standard with a corrected English version in June 2012; users should check the ISO catalogue or their national standards body for the latest review status or any subsequent revisions.

Q: Is it part of a series?

A: It belongs conceptually to the set of space data and information transfer standards maintained by ISO/TC 20/SC 13 and is often considered in conjunction with CCSDS and other image-coding standards, but ISO 26868 itself is a standalone International Standard (ISO 26868:2009, Edition 1).

Q: What are the key keywords?

A: Image compression, space data transfer, codestream segmentation, payload imagery, decompression, onboard processing, bandwidth reduction.