The Global Precipitation Measurement (GPM) Microwave Imager (GMI) Instrument: Role, Performance, and Status

Abstract

The Global Precipitation Measurement (GPM) Microwave Imager (GMI) instrument is a multi-channel, conical-scanning, microwave radiometer serving an essential role in the near-global-coverage and frequent-revisit-time requirements of GPM. As a part of its contribution to GPM, NASA will provide a GMI instrument and a spacecraft for the Core observatory and is considering the acquisition of a second GMI instrument for placement aboard a constellation spacecraft with a payload and orbit to be defined. In March 2005, NASA chose Ball Aerospace & Technology Corporation to provide the GMI instrument(s). This paper describes the GMI instrument, the technical performance requirements, its role within the combined passive and active microwave measurements on the Core observatory, and the timeline for GMI development and acquisition.

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Document Details

Document Type
Technical Report
Publication Date
Jul 25, 2005
Accession Number
ADA449958

Entities

People

  • Eric Alden Smith
  • G. M. Flaming
  • J. F. Durning
  • S. W. Bidwell

Organizations

  • National Aeronautics and Space Administration

Tags

Communities of Interest

  • Space

DTIC Thesaurus Topics

  • Acquisition
  • Antennas
  • Calibration
  • Conical Scanning
  • Constellations
  • Contracts
  • Frequency
  • Geometry
  • Measurement
  • Microwaves
  • Observatories
  • Precipitation
  • Procurement
  • Scanning
  • Spacecraft
  • Standards
  • Temperature Gradients

Fields of Study

  • Environmental science

Readers

  • Aerospace Engineering.
  • Atmospheric Remote Sensing.
  • Systems Analysis and Design

Technology Areas

  • Space
  • Space - Hall-Effect Thruster
  • Space - Satellites