The BepiColombo Laser Altimeter

Abstract The BepiColombo Laser Altimeter (BELA) is the first European laser altimeter constructed for interplanetary flight. BELA uses a 50 mJ pulsed Nd:YAG operating at 10 Hz with 20 cm aperture receiver to perform ranging. instrument also digital approach range detection and pulse analysis. ranging accuracy expected be better than 2 metres ∼20 in optimum conditions. With given, only slightly elliptical, orbit, should return consistent data set most if not all of planet. required function an extreme environment thermal issues being particularly demanding. Novel solutions have been taken resolve these issues. described detail its predicted performance outlined on basis pre-flight testing.