Twin mini satellites provide new insights into polar heat emissions
by Clarence Oxford
Los Angeles CA (SPX) Dec 04, 2024
Two compact satellites, part of NASA's Polar Radiant Energy in the Far-Infrared Experiment (PREFIRE), are delivering groundbreaking data on the far-infrared radiation emitted from the Arctic and Antarctic regions. This marks the first systematic measurement of this phenomenon, which is critical for understanding Earth's energy balance. These measurements will clarify how atmospheric water vapor and clouds impact the far-infrared radiation escaping from polar regions into space.

The first CubeSat, a shoebox-sized satellite, launched on May 25 from New Zealand and began transmitting scientific data in July. A second CubeSat followed on June 5 but encountered an issue with its GPS unit, which was intended to geolocate the data. When the GPS unit on the first CubeSat also began experiencing problems, the PREFIRE team opted to turn off the GPS on both satellites and employ alternative geolocation methods. Despite these challenges, the second CubeSat started sending back data in August, and both satellites have continued their scientific operations without disruption.

Initial data products from the mission were made publicly accessible through NASA's Atmospheric Science Data Center in late October, with additional releases planned for early 2025. The data will enable scientists to improve predictions of how climate change will influence ice dynamics, ocean behavior, and weather systems. These findings will be instrumental in helping communities worldwide prepare for changing climate conditions.

Related Links
NASA Atmospheric Science Data Center
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