Cloud characterization with the Compact and Configurable Imaging system (CaCtI)

The US relies on satellite systems in two complementary orbits for weather observations and data collection for inputs to forecast models: (1) polar-orbiting satellites and (2) geostationary satellites. Systems in both orbits are critical for mapping and monitoring changes in the atmosphere and the Earth’s surface. Traditional atmospheric remote sensing systems, while critical to weather monitoring, can cost billions of dollars and take years to complete. Small satellite systems are much lower cost and require less time to build. As newer technologies are developed with lower Size, Weight, and Power requirements, more functional, smaller satellite systems are possible. The ASTRA Team will leverage its Phase I design effort to build and deliver a space qualified sensor package, the Compact and Configurable Imager (CaCtI), to be deployed on a government selected 6U CubeSat bus. CaCtI’s modular design is capable of observing at any wavelength in the visible through the thermal infrared with proper filter selection, but this system is tailored for filling the cloud characterization observational gap. The ultimate, expected implementation is a constellation of CaCtI that can be deployed to meet theater weather observational requirements.