Microwave radiometer for EPS-Sterna
A weather instrument that measures temperature and humidity through the atmosphere, chosen for Europe's EPS-Sterna constellation of small weather satellites.
Why it matters
Temperature and humidity profiles are core inputs to weather forecasts. A constellation of small satellites can provide continuous observations, and AAC says the instruments cut the cost of weather missions.
How the technology works
The radiometer reads faint microwave emissions from oxygen and water vapor at several frequencies, which reveal temperature and moisture at different heights. AAC subsidiary AAC Omnisys builds it; the design was demonstrated on the Arctic Weather Satellite.
Sources
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