Atmospheric Science Experiments Applicable to Space Shuttle Spacelab Missions

Abstract

The present lack of a lower atmosphere research satellite program for the 1980s has prompted consideration of the Space Shuttle/ Spacelab system as a means of flying sensor complements geared toward specific research problems, as well as continued instrument development. Three specific examples of possible science questions related to precipitation are discussed: 1) spatial structure of mesoscale cloud and precipitation systems, 2) lightning and storm development, and 3) cyclone intensification over oceanic regions. Examples of space sensors available to provide measurements needed in addressing these questions are also presented. Distinctive aspects of low-earth orbit experiments would be high resolution, multispectral sensing of atmospheric phenomena by complements of instruments, and more efficient sensor development through reflights of specific hardware packages.

Meteorological applications of space shuttle photography

“…Robertson et al (1984) outlines a proposed low Earth orbit atmospheric science instrument package for high resolution, multi-spectral sensing of a particular area. The role of the Shuttle in supporting future instrument development (through sensor reflights) and providing a platform for detailed measurements for important science issues related to precipitation processes.…”

An Evaluation of Observations from Satellites for the Study and Prediction of Mesoscale Events and Cyclone Events

“…There are other sensing possibilities that could further-enhance storm measurement. A good example is lightning mapping (Robertson, et al 1984;Vonnegut, et al, 1985). These new sensors could either be placed as research instrumentation on a larger GOES-Next spacecraft or on the planned Space Station Geostationary Platform.…”