Session
Technical Session VI: Strength in Numbers
Abstract
A novel small satellite constellation utilizing a Fourier Transform Spectrometer (FTS) instrument onboard 6U CubeSats would allow weather forecasters to have unprecedented understanding of global tropospheric wind observations from space; enabling more accurate, reliable, and longer-term weather forecasts. Three FTS CubeSats flying in formation and separated by a known time delay would provide cooperative measurements and overlay scenes necessary to compile vertical profiles of the wind field. A constellation of formation-flying FTS CubeSats would allow measurement of the global wind field; providing unparalleled coverage and allowing longer-term weather forecasts. This paper will describe the recent advancements in CubeSat capabilities and future work required to meet the objectives of the FTS mission. The innovative approach the Exelis/University of Michigan team is taking to power, attitude determination and control, communications, and constellation formations will also be discussed. System and subsystem trades were optimized with emphasis on science mission requirements while balancing overall mission cost.
Presentation Slides
FTS CubeSat Constellation Providing 3D Winds
A novel small satellite constellation utilizing a Fourier Transform Spectrometer (FTS) instrument onboard 6U CubeSats would allow weather forecasters to have unprecedented understanding of global tropospheric wind observations from space; enabling more accurate, reliable, and longer-term weather forecasts. Three FTS CubeSats flying in formation and separated by a known time delay would provide cooperative measurements and overlay scenes necessary to compile vertical profiles of the wind field. A constellation of formation-flying FTS CubeSats would allow measurement of the global wind field; providing unparalleled coverage and allowing longer-term weather forecasts. This paper will describe the recent advancements in CubeSat capabilities and future work required to meet the objectives of the FTS mission. The innovative approach the Exelis/University of Michigan team is taking to power, attitude determination and control, communications, and constellation formations will also be discussed. System and subsystem trades were optimized with emphasis on science mission requirements while balancing overall mission cost.
