Two shoebox-size satellites, part of NASA’s Polar Radiant Energy in the Far-Infrared Experiment (PREFIRE) mission, are delivering measurements on the amount of heat in the form of far-infrared radiation that the Arctic and Antarctica emit to space. This aspect of the polar environment has never been systematically measured before and will offer crucial insights into Earth’s energy budget. The information will help researchers gain a clearer understanding of when and where Earth’s polar regions emit far-infrared radiation to space, as well as how atmospheric water vapor and clouds influence the amount that escapes.
The first cube satellite, or CubeSat, launched on May 25 from New Zealand and started sending back science data in July. Launched on June 5, the second CubeSat had an issue with its GPS unit, which researchers were planning to use to help geolocate the science data from the satellite. After the GPS unit on the first CubeSat also began experiencing issues, the PREFIRE team decided to turn off the GPS units on both CubeSats and use an alternative method for geolocating the science data. The second CubeSat started sending back science data in August. The GPS issue has not affected the science operations of either CubeSat.
Initial data products from both CubeSats were made publicly available in late October through NASA’s Atmospheric Science Data Center. Subsequent data products are scheduled for public release in early 2025. Data from the mission will help researchers better predict how a changing climate will affect the planet’s ice, seas, and weather. This information can be used to help communities around the world better prepare for shifts in climate and weather patterns.
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Jane J. Lee / Andrew Wang
Jet Propulsion Laboratory, Pasadena, Calif.
818-354-0307 / 626-379-6874
jane.j.lee@jpl.nasa.gov / andrew.wang@jpl.nasa.gov