The HyMS payload will serve as a technology demonstrator, aiming to validate the function of a hyperspectral microwave sounder in a compact satellite platform. HyMS is designed to provide detailed temperature, humidity, and precipitation profiles by sensing atmospheric microwave signals with high spectral resolution.
Engineers subjected the sounder to extensive thermal vacuum testing, simulating the space environment. Calibration involved measuring performance against reference targets, including simulations of deep space and various Earth surface conditions such as deserts, oceans, and cloud-tops. The tests confirmed that the sensor meets radiometric performance requirements, demonstrating the ability to detect faint atmospheric signals with low noise for precise profiling.
"HyMS is built to sense faint microwave emissions with fine spectral resolution in Earth's atmosphere, so accuracy and sensitivity of the radiometers are critical," said Mohammed Belal, Program Director, Microwave Technologies at Spire.
"Our environmental and calibration campaign demonstrated strong radiometric stability and validated the instrument's performance ahead of launch. We're excited to see HyMS reach orbit and begin delivering new levels of atmospheric insight for the global forecasting community."
Spire also developed all ground support systems, including calibration processes and a data processor for turning raw measurements into calibrated, geolocated, and bias-corrected atmospheric data products once in orbit. The technology complements Spire's current radio occultation measurements for Earth observation.
Spire's weather data informs agencies such as NOAA, NASA, and EUMETSAT for global weather prediction and Earth system analysis.
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