Direct Solar Viewing Calibration Concept for Future CERES-, GERB-, or Libera-Type Earth Orbital Climate Missions

Abstract

Abstract Better predictions of global warming can be enabled by tuning legacy and current computer simulations to Earth radiation budget (ERB) measurements. Since the 1970s, such orbital results exist, and the next-generation instruments such as one called “Libera” are in production. Climate communities have requested that new ERB observing system missions like these have calibration accuracy obtaining significantly improved calibration SI traceability and stability. This is to prevent untracked instrument calibration drifts that could lead to false conclusions on climate change. Based on experience from previous ERB missions, the alternative concept presented here utilizes directly viewing solar calibration, for cloud-size Earth measurement resolution at <1% accuracy. However, it neglects complex already used calibration technology like solar diffusers and onboard lights, allowing new lower cost/risk unconsidered spectral characterizing concepts to be introduced for today’s technology. Also in contrast to near future ERB concepts already being produced, this enables in-flight wavelength dependent calibration of Earth-observing telescopes using direct solar views, through narrowband filters continuously characterized on-orbit.