Noise estimation plays significant role in payload assessment

image processing and data application.In this paper

considering characteristics of Beijing-1 small satellite

the image-based noise estimation methods with their applicability are ap-praised and compared through experiments.The parameters and model optimization are also discussed for better assessment of noise.With comprehensive analysis of noise estimation results from different land cover types

the Beijing-1 small satellite noise is evaluated with its standard deviation.Comparison of the noise estimation from images acquired in 2008 and the in-orbit test right after launch in 2005 shows that noise level of the Beijing-1 small satellite does not change

the satellite has well-kept per-formance even after 3 years of operation.