Nyquist Imaging Radiometer for K to W-band

Completed TRL 2 (started at 2, targeting 2)

Description

This projects goal is to mature the design and science requirements of a SmallSat mission capable of continuing Microwave observations in K, Ka- and W-band (18 and/or 23 GHz, 37 GHz, 89 GHz respectively). The work elements include developing a stand-alone instrument concept based on the joint science requirements, culminating in an instrument design study.

Benefits

This proposal aims to develop an innovative concept that allows for current measurements (with importance to Earth Science decadal survey science priorities) to be made by instruments with lower mass, volume, and power requirements. Recent investments have advanced miniaturization of key components of a passive microwave imager: the correlator array fed radiometer, Monolithic Microwave Integrated Circuit, and deployable antenna. Together, these innovations will enable a SmallSat solution to legacy microwave observations so that key long-term Earth observation records can be continued at lower cost and with higher quality.

Details

Technology area	Sensors and Instruments > Remote Sensing Instruments and Sensors > Microwave, Millimeter Waves, and Submillimeter Waves
Program	Center Independent Research & Development: GSFC IRAD (GSFC IRAD)
Lead organization	Goddard Space Flight Center, Greenbelt, MD
Start date	2020-10-01
End date	2021-09-30

Project contacts

Listed on TechPort itself — the most direct way to ask about this specific project.

Julia W Breed — julia.w.breed@nasa.gov
Matt Mcgill — Matthew.J.McGill@nasa.gov
Thomas R Holmes — thomas.r.holmes@nasa.gov
Ian S Adams — ian.s.adams@nasa.gov
Jeffrey R Piepmeier — jeffrey.r.piepmeier@nasa.gov
Paul E Racette — paul.e.racette@nasa.gov
Stephen J Munchak — s.j.munchak@nasa.gov

How to get involved

This is early/mid-stage (TRL 2) — the most realistic path in is NASA SBIR/STTR, which funds small businesses and research institutions to develop technology aligned with NASA's needs (equity-free, phased funding). Check whether a current SBIR/STTR solicitation topic overlaps with this project's technology area, or contact the project directly (above) to ask.

None of these are guaranteed paths for this specific project — TechPort itself doesn't have an "apply" button. Reaching out to the contact(s) above with a specific question is usually the fastest way to find out what's actually open.