Invitation to a forum: architecting operational ‘next generation’ earth monitoring satellites based on best modeling, existing sensor capabilities, with constellation efficiencies  to secure trusted datasets for the next 20 years

Douglas B. Helmuth; Raymond M. Bell; David A. Grant; Christopher A. Lentz

doi:10.1117/12.974767

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19 November 2012 Invitation to a forum: architecting operational ‘next generation’ earth monitoring satellites based on best modeling, existing sensor capabilities, with constellation efficiencies to secure trusted datasets for the next 20 years

Douglas B. Helmuth, Raymond M. Bell, David A. Grant, Christopher A. Lentz

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Proceedings Volume 8533, Sensors, Systems, and Next-Generation Satellites XVI; 85330R (2012) https://doi.org/10.1117/12.974767
Event: SPIE Remote Sensing, 2012, Edinburgh, United Kingdom

Abstract

Architecting the operational Next Generation of earth monitoring satellites based on matured climate modeling, reuse of existing sensor & satellite capabilities, attention to affordability and evolutionary improvements integrated with constellation efficiencies - becomes our collective goal for an open architectural design forum. Understanding the earth's climate and collecting requisite signatures over the next 30 years is a shared mandate by many of the world's governments. But there remains a daunting challenge to bridge scientific missions to 'operational' systems that truly support the demands of decision makers, scientific investigators and global users' requirements for trusted data. In this paper we will suggest an architectural structure that takes advantage of current earth modeling examples including cross-model verification and a first order set of critical climate parameters and metrics; that in turn, are matched up with existing space borne collection capabilities and sensors. The tools used and the frameworks offered are designed to allow collaborative overlays by other stakeholders nominating different critical parameters and their own treaded connections to existing international collection experience. These aggregate design suggestions will be held up to group review and prioritized as potential constellation solutions including incremental and spiral developments - including cost benefits and organizational opportunities. This Part IV effort is focused on being an inclusive 'Next Gen Constellation' design discussion and is the natural extension to earlier papers.

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Douglas B. Helmuth, Raymond M. Bell, David A. Grant, and Christopher A. Lentz "Invitation to a forum: architecting operational ‘next generation’ earth monitoring satellites based on best modeling, existing sensor capabilities, with constellation efficiencies to secure trusted datasets for the next 20 years", Proc. SPIE 8533, Sensors, Systems, and Next-Generation Satellites XVI, 85330R (19 November 2012); https://doi.org/10.1117/12.974767

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