In-Orbit Performance of the Constellation of CYGNSS Hurricane Satellites

• DOI: 10.1175/bams-d-18-0337.1
• Publication Date: 2019-06-28T13:22:44Z
• Authors: Christopher Ruf; Shakeel Asharaf; Rajeswari Balasub...; Scott Gleason; Timothy Lang; Darren McKague; Dorina Twigg; Duane Waliser
• Keywords: Eye

Abstract The NASA Cyclone Global Navigation Satellite System (CYGNSS) constellation of eight satellites was successfully launched into low Earth orbit on 15 December 2016. Each satellite carries a radar receiver that measures GPS signals scattered from the surface. Wind speed over ocean is determined distortions in signal caused by wind-driven surface roughness. operates at sufficiently frequency to allow for propagation through all precipitation, including extreme rain rates present eyewall tropical cyclones. spacing and were chosen optimize frequent sampling In this study, we characterize CYGNSS wind measurements their uncertainty, dynamic range, sensitivity spatial resolution, temporal sampling, data latency. current status each these properties examined potential future improvements are discussed. addition, examples given science investigations make use data.