Hyperspectral Microwave Sensor

Hyperspectral remote sensing in the microwave offers the opportunity to substantially improve the atmospheric information provided to numerical weather prediction data assimilation systems, enabling advancements in forecast skill. This Phase I project proposes a numerical study leading to selection of optimal channels for a space borne hyperspectral sensor. Based on the recommendations from a numerical modeling, a potential hardware implementation will be proposed. Phase II project will aim to build a prototype of a hyperspectal sensor, based on the design developed in Phase I. The prototype sensor will be ground-based and will address the technological challenges in hardware, such as reduced radiometer noise levels, local oscillator stability, antenna design, optimization of filters block, power, volume and cost requirements. Successful realization of the sensor will have applications not only to satellite instrument advancement, but also in ground-based passive microwave remote sensing.