J. R. Mansell | Search NASA

NASA NTRS2022

Instrument Science Experiments on the SNOOPI P-Band Reflectometry Mission

SigNals Of Opportunity: P-band Investigation (SNOOPI) will be the first in-space validation of P-band (240–380 MHz) SoOp techniques and a prototype science instrument. These techniques have the potential to enable remote sensing of root-zone soil moisture (RZSM) and snow water equivalent (SWE). SNOOPI technology validation goals will be met by targeting observations within 9 km of the SMAP calibration/validation sites in the continental United States. A second priority is collection of continuous phase data over snow-covered regions. These goals are evaluated under constraints of a limited data budget and mission lifetime, with a launch readiness in August 2022. This presentation will review the instrument science plans aimed at achieving the validation objectives defined for the mission. Mission planning and data processing approaches are described.

Soil Moisture↗

NASA NTRS2021

SNOOPI: Demonstrating P-Band Reflectometry from Orbit

SigNals Of Opportunity: P-band Investigation (SNOOPI)will be the first on-orbit demonstration of remote sensing using Signals of Opportunity (SoOp) in P-band (240-380 MHz). P-band is needed to penetrate through dense vegetation and into the root zone. The longer wavelength of P-band also increases the unwrapping interval for phase observations. These observations hold the potential for spaceborne remote sensing of root-zone soil moisture (RZSM) and snow water equivalent(SWE), two variables identified as priorities in the 2017-2027 Decadal Survey for Earth Science and Applications from Space. SNOOPI will provide in-space validation of both the P-band SoOp technique and a science instrument prototype. SNOOPI technology validation goals will be met by targeting observations within 9 km of the SMAP calibration/validation sites in the continental United States. A secondary priority is collection of continuous phase data over snow-covered regions. These goals are evaluated under constraints of a limited data budget and mission lifetime, with a launch readiness in early2022. Updates on the development of measurement models and mission planning to support SNOOPI are provided. Aground-based station will be deployed to monitor the non-cooperative sources, in order to reduce risk due to uncertainty in knowledge of the broadcast power, spectrum shape, and orbital position.

J L Garrison↗