Space Boffins, from the Naked Scientists EarthCARE, Starliner and NASA's George Abbey
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Apr 29, 2024 Susie Imber, planetary scientist working on BepiColombo and X-ray studies of Mercury. Robin Hogan, expert on clouds and co-chair of the EarthCARE advisory group. They discuss EarthCARE’s laser, radar and instruments for studying clouds and aerosols. They cover how its data will aid weather forecasting and engineering challenges before launch. They also preview BepiColombo science and a tribute interview with NASA’s George Abbey.
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Use EarthCARE Data In Weather Forecasts
- Assimilate EarthCARE observations into weather models to improve short-term forecasts and initial conditions.
- Robin Hogan says near-real-time cloud data will sharpen starting states and yield more accurate medium-range forecasts.
25 Years Of Work Strapped To A Rocket
- Robin Hogan described the emotional weight of launch after decades of work, noting the satellite was at Vandenberg ready for a May 2024 SpaceX Falcon 9 launch.
- He contrasted SpaceX's routine cadence with the team's feeling of 25 years of effort strapped to a rocket.
BepiColombo's Slow Approach To Mercury
- BepiColombo uses multiple planetary flybys and gravity assists to shed energy before Mercury capture, arriving December 2025.
- The mission's long, scenic trajectory lets instruments survive and be operated en route while preparing for a short intensive science phase.