The TropSat mission: An observatory for mesoscale convective system processes in the global tropics

A satellite mission is proposed to provide frequent, high-resolution measurements of surface winds, rain, and temperature profiles to support critical observations of mesoscale convective systems (MCS) over the global tropical oceans. The proposed mission includes an innovative active/passive microwave system coupled with IR cloud top measurements for multi-layer atmosphere observations. The TropSat system will provide frequent, high-resolution measurements of the near-surface wind vector and rain rate over the tropical oceans. The sensor design is based on the proven technology of SeaWinds but includes key innovations and an integral radiometer. The main sensor will include: (1) dual-band (C- and Ku-band) and dual beam (inner/outer beams) operation (C- and Ku-band) at multiple polarizations and (2) ground-based post processing to achieve the desired high spatial resolution. Backscatter measurements over land can support vegetation and climate change studies. This paper provides a brief description of the TropSat mission, discusses various instrument and mission tradeoffs, and presents performance estimates to demonstrate the feasibility of the mission concept.