HGH was awarded by Airbus Defence and Space to supply OGSE blackbodies for the Copernicus program
IGNY, France – April 16, 2026 – HGH, a recognized expert in electro-optical and infrared solutions, announces a supply of several high precision vacuum-compatible blackbodies to the LSTM (Land Surface Temperature Monitoring) mission. As part of the Copernicus program, two Earth observation satellites are developed by the European Space Agency (ESA) on behalf of the European Commission (EC) with a first launch scheduled in 2028. This mission aims to improve the monitoring of land and coastal surface temperatures in order to, among others, support agricultural management and environmental services.
The LSTM satellites will be equipped with high-precision optical instruments capable of making observations in the visible and near-infrared (VNIR), shortwave infrared (SWIR), and thermal infrared (TIR) spectral bands. They will enable surface temperature measurements that significantly improve on current capabilities.
Before launch, space instruments must be tested and characterized under conditions that replicate the space environment. For these vacuum tests, the prime contractor Airbus Defence and Space uses an optical bench called INSTOB (INSTrument Optical Bench), which is part of the optical ground support equipment (OGSE).
For this purpose, HGH has been selected by the Prime Contractor Airbus Defence and Space and ESA to supply two vacuum-compatible blackbodies and their spare parts for characterizing and calibrating the thermal infrared instrument. Among these high uniformity reference sources, a vacuum-compatible blackbody will simulate terrestrial radiation (Scene blackbody), and another one will simulate space radiation (Deep Space blackbody). This equipment makes it possible to generate extremely accurate thermal references, thereby ensuring the reliability of measurements taken in orbit.
Since 2005, HGH vacuum-compatible blackbodies have been integrated into OGSE of several major players in the space industry to their Assembly Integration, Verification and Testing (AIVT) processes.
The LSTM mission confirms HGH’s ambition to accelerate its development in the demanding space sector and contribute to Earth observation missions dedicated to major climate and environmental issues.
By contributing to this mission, HGH confirms its commitment to developing benchmark technologies for space innovation and environmental protection.
About HGH:
Pioneer in electro-optical technologies since 1982, HGH develops advanced optical testing solutions for optronic systems and provides high precision equipment, unparalleled technical support and measurement services. These cutting-edge infrared and visible test equipment range from blackbodies, integrating spheres sources and laboratory collimators or integrated test benches for workshops. All are driven by the comprehensive INFRATEST software. HGH solutions offer to camera manufacturers, research labs, detector and core manufacturers and test centers around the world the most reliable and independent test results allowing them to meet the highest industry standards and innovate in their areas of expertise.
Press Contact
Karine Sebbah
Communications Project Manager
Mail