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IRIS Space Camera Family and its MCAM Multi-Camera System

IRIS Space Camera Family and its MCAM Multi-Camera System

 

3D PLUS continues to develop its space product line with the IRIS space camera family — an innovative range of space imaging solutions designed to meet the growing demands of modern space missions.

The IRIS product family builds on the latest camera developments for high-profile missions such as Mars Sample Return (MSR). At the core of each IRIS camera is the proven CASPEX 4M camera head, developed and manufactured by 3D PLUS for over five years, with successful spaceflight heritage on missions like Perseverance’s SuperCam, LICIACube, SPEXone, and more.

The IRIS Camera family is being extended to the IRIS-HD configurations using 3D PLUS CASPEX 12M high performance camera head, benefitting from its new 2025 space heritage with the mission SOAP!

 The IRIS family initially offers multiple standard space camera configurations:
IRIS 8mm Equipped with a CASPEX 4M and an 8mm focal length lens, it delivers a wide field of view exceeding 80° (horizontal and vertical). This model inherits its design from the MCAM multi-camera monitoring system developed by 3D PLUS under the MSR Earth Return Orbiter program, using the same 8mm optics from the MMX mission developed for CNES.
IRIS 11mm Featuring an 11mm focal length lens and a CASPEX 4M, it offers a 54° field of view (horizontal and vertical). This configuration reuses the optical and mechanical assemblies developed for the MSR-ERO and PROSPECT missions.
IRIS 25mm Featuring an 25mm focal length lens and a CASPEX 4M, it offers a 25° field of view (horizontal and vertical). This configuration reuses the mechanical assemblies developed for the MSR-ERO mission in association with a new 25mm focal length optical design, suitable for navigation and tracking application.
IRIS 50mm Featuring a CASPEX 4M and an 50mm focal length lens, it offers a 12.5° field of view (horizontal and vertical). This configuration reuses the mechanical assemblies developed for the MSR-ERO mission in association with a new 50mm focal length optical design, suitable for navigation and tracking applications.
IRIS-HD 8mm
Equipped with an 8mm focal length lens, it delivers a wide field of view exceeding 100°x70° (horizontal and vertical). This model inherits its design from the MCAM multi-camera monitoring system developed by 3D PLUS  under the MSR Earth Return Orbiter program. Using the same 8mm optics from the MMX mission developed for CNES and integrating 3D PLUS CASPEX 12M camera head, it improves the resolution and the overall performances. It offers th capability to capture and transmit compressed video at 30 frame per second in Full HD !

 

MCAM SYSTEM

to rovers. With MCAM, 3D PLUS reaffirms its commitment to providing advanced, user-friendly solutions for the evolving needs of the space industry. APPLICATIONS • Payload and platform monitoring • Navigation and guidance • Observation and surveillance SPACE ENVIROMENT • Suitable for LEO (7 years) & GEO (15 years) AVAILABILTY • Engineering models: Available for LEO missions, Q1 2026 for GEO missions • Flight models: Available for LEO missions, Q1 2026 for GEO missions MCAM Control Unit GEO missions

Further enhancing its offering, 3D PLUS introduced the MCAM system as a standard multi-camera solution. Originating from the MSR-ERO project, MCAM integrates up to seven IRIS and IRIS-HD cameras connected to a central camera control unit. Acting as a hub, this unit manages both power distribution (with integrated 28V-to-5V conversion, protection, and isolation) and communication between the spacecraft and the cameras—ensuring reliable performance in harsh space environments.

MCAM simplifies the integration of multiple cameras into a single platform, providing a turnkey solution ideal for a wide range of imaging and monitoring applications. It is particularly suited for next-generation missions, including this decade’s ambitious lunar programs—from orbiters and landers to rovers. With the IRIS family and the MCAM system, 3D PLUS reaffirms its commitment to delivering advanced, reliable, and user-friendly imaging solutions tailored to the evolving needs of the space industry.

 

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