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The Atmospheric Chemistry Experiment (ACE) is the mission selected by the Canadian Space Agency for its next science satellite, SCISAT-1. ACE consists of a suite of instruments in which the primary element is an infrared Fourier Transform Spectrometer (FTS) coupled with an auxiliary 2-channel visible (525 nm) and near infrared imager (1020 nm). A secondary instrument, MAESTRO, provides spectrographic data from the near ultra-violet to the near infrared, including the visible spectral range. In combination the instrument payload covers the spectral range from 0.25 to 13.3 micron. A comprehensive set of simultaneous measurements of trace gases, thin clouds, aerosols and temperature will be made by solar occultation from a satellite in low earth orbit. The ACE mission will measure and analyse the chemical and dynamical processes that control the distribution of ozone in the upper troposphere and stratosphere. A high inclination (74 degrees), low earth orbit (650 km) allows coverage of tropical, mid-latitude and polar regions. This paper describes the detailed design of the ACE-FTS instrument. The principal design drivers and trade-offs are covered as well as system engineering approaches to optimise the performance of the instrument. Its highly folded, compact and robust opto-mechanical design is described. The structural and thermal design challenges, which have considerably impacted the detailed design of the instrument, are presented. Lessons learned during the detailed design phase and manufacturing of the Flight Model are presented. The latest status of the flight model is also presented as well as preliminary test results.

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