Next generation global atmospheric water content observations leveraging Starlink constellation

We propose to develop next generation global atmospheric water content observations leveraging Starlink and other communication constellations by demonstrating the concept with ground-based satellite signal receivers and advanced retrieval algorithm. Compared with conventional space-borne and ground-based dedicated observing systems, the advantage of proposed systems is to achieve high spatiotemporal resolution observations of atmospheric water with a small SWaP-Cost. They receive readily available communication signals transmitted from thousands of Starlink satellites at very low LEO orbits. The signals are in Ku- and Ka-band which are ideal for monitoring atmospheric water. A potential to use COTS components would further lower the cost. This idea would be demonstrated from developed ground receiving systems with an advanced physics-based microwave retrieval algorithm. After completing this project, the team will propose a CubeSat/SmallSat demonstration for the concept to the InVEST program under NASA ESTO. We anticipate that there are no risks in this project as it is built upon decades of experience on microwave remote sensing. Several team members are LaRC pioneers in development of scientific applications of GPS signals in late1990s and barometric radar currently. This project is the first scientific application using communication satellite constellations. After the demonstration, it will lead to a mission concept of CubeSat/SmallSat constellation and ground receiving networks. The similar approach can be applied to other communication networks such as Kuiper and OneWeb. It is also possible to expand the current retrieval algorithm to other scientific application areas such as snow coverage and snow depth monitoring.

In Year 2, the team will further improve the prototype receiving system designed and built in Year 1 and advance the retrieval algorithm developed in Year 1. These efforts would pave the way for mission concept in Year 3. In Year 1, the team had designed and tested receiving systems for GEO and Starlink communication signals. With this IRAD support, the team would deliver a prototype receiving system for Starlink constellation and a physics-based atmospheric water retrieval algorithm. Later the team would apply for CubeSat/SmallSat demonstration in space under InVEST Program supported by NASA ESTO. If this project were not selected, Langley would run into a risk of not catching the wave of expanding communication constellations and lose its potential leading role in next generation space and ground atmospheric remote sensing. As mentioned above, this is a low risk-high reward project built upon the legacy of microwave remote sensing capability at Langley over three decades. It also provides a training opportunity for next generation microwave remote sensing experts, engineers, and leaders. Moreover, leveraging Starlink constellation from SpaceX aligns with current SMD science leadership strategy to pursue public-private partnerships. This effort will result in tremendous societal benefits related to weather and climate.

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