EarthCARE: analysing clouds and aerosols in reflecting solar radiation

Improve current climate and numerical weather prediction models

The EarthCARE (Cloud, Aerosol and Radiation Explorer) satellite mission is equipped with four instruments, together they form a complete dataset to be used by scientists to study the climate and numerical weather prediction models by analysing the role that clouds and aerosols play in reflecting solar radiation. In The Netherlands SRON, KNMI and TU Delft will use these data for research on aerosol and aerosol-cloud interaction from Remote Sensing Enhancement. SRON and KNMI study the synergy between EarthCARE and SPEXone on PACE in project AIRSENSE.

Multi Spectral Imager

In cooperation with Surrey Satellite Technology Ltd (SSTL UK), TNO designed and developed the MSI, where TNO has realized the instrument module that observes the Visible and Near- and Shortwave Infrared (VNS) light reflectance of sunlight by clouds and aerosols.

The two optical cameras in the MSI instrument make sure that reflected sunlight on the earth combined with warmth from the earth is measured to give a clear view on aerosols. With these camera’s visible, near infrared, shortwave and thermal infrared light is captured, after which specifically designed detectors convert this in electric signals. Data packages are sent from the MSI to ESA throughout the day, ready to be analysed by scientists throughout the world.

As all elements need to be positioned with micrometer precision, the alignment of the design of the cameras ensures the exact fixing of the six degrees of freedom. With a satellite launch being a rough and jerky moment, it was a challenge to make sure this alignment is kept exactly equal. To avoid any deviation during measurement the MSI instrument calibrates every day.

Developing groundbreaking new concepts and designs

The technology development for MSI EarthCARE paved the way for the Dutch earth observation missions TROPOMI and coming TANGO, and the first developments at TNO on optical satellite communication technology.

European collaboration

ADS NL supported TNO in the design and development of the thermal control of the instrument. The company Xenics supported TNO with the development of the detectors and its readout integrated circuits.