Potential Applications of Small Satellite Microwave Observations for Monitoring and Predicting Global Fast-Evolving Weathers

Abstract

Two new constellations comprising 14 small satellites with microwave instruments onboard are proposed in this study. Properly arranged, the first constellation is capable of covering the entire globe at an hourly interval and the second constellation is more favorable for the tropical area. Compared to the current JPSS and MetOp satellite constellation, which has passive microwave sounding instruments ATMS or AMSU, a small satellite constellation is more cost effective, requires a shorter development cycle, and has a smaller launch-failure impact. For a designated microwave small satellite constellation, the brightness temperature distribution in space and time is simulated using the operational forecast fields as inputs to the Community Radiative Transfer Model (CRTM). It is demonstrated that the structural change of fast-evolving weather systems such as a middle-latitude cyclone can be well captured from small satellite brightness temperatures.