Sensor Webs of Earth Science Instruments to Improve our Understanding of Natural Phenomena and Physical Processes

摘要

The demonstration of high quality scientific observations from small satellites has signaled the opportunity to employ new Earth science observing strategies using constellations or swarms of these relatively inexpensive platforms. While replacement of the existing observing strategies with those based on smallsats is not indicated, they do offer the promise of completely new observing strategies that can measure characteristics of natural phenomena and physical processes that were not possible with the monolithic Battlestar Galactica type systems. Distributed Spacecraft Missions (DSM) are starting to take shape, as described in this Session. Variations in configurations are possible including geometry and composition and the degree of autonomy in operations. A number of sensor web information technologies have been matured, but mostly focused on ground based systems. Some useful technologies have also matured in other domains, such as machine learning and the Internet of Things. New technology development is needed, guided by a framework to prioritize new investments. Such a framework would also encourage division of labor and collaboration among Governments, companies and educational institutions.