Beyond Gravity supports NASA in enhancing climate data accuracy with PACE satellite

Beyond Gravity supports NASA in enhancing climate data accuracy with PACE satellite
by Robert Schreiber
Zurich, Switzerland (SPX) Feb 05, 2024

Beyond Gravity, Europe's leading space supplier, has been selected by NASA to provide crucial navigation technology for a new climate satellite, the PACE mission, set to launch on February 6, 2024. This collaboration underscores the importance of precision in space missions, especially those monitoring the Earth's environmental health.

The PACE (Plankton, Aerosol, Cloud, Ocean Ecosystem) mission represents a significant step forward in our understanding of the Earth's oceans and atmosphere. Equipped with a navigation receiver from Beyond Gravity, the satellite will deliver centimeter-precise positioning data, enhancing the accuracy of climate observations sent back to Earth. This precision is vital for understanding changes in marine biology, aerosols, and cloud formations, which are key indicators of the planet's health.

Beyond Gravity's contributions extend beyond navigation technology. The company is also providing thermal insulation for one of the three main instruments aboard the PACE satellite. This insulation is critical for protecting the instrument from the extreme temperatures of space, ensuring reliable measurements of sunlight reflection from the Earth's surface.

The significance of the PACE mission lies in its comprehensive approach to monitoring the Earth's climate systems. By observing phytoplankton, aerosols, and clouds, NASA aims to gather data that will improve our understanding of ocean health, air quality, and climate patterns. Phytoplankton, for example, are a foundational component of the marine food web, and their distribution can provide insights into the overall health of marine ecosystems.

Aerosols, small particles suspended in the atmosphere, are another focus of the PACE mission. These particles, which include dust, pollen, smoke, and volcanic ash, can have profound effects on air quality and human health. By providing detailed information on aerosol composition and distribution, PACE will contribute to our understanding of how these particles influence the environment and public health.

Cloud observation is a third critical component of the PACE mission. Clouds play a significant role in the Earth's climate system, reflecting sunlight and trapping heat. Understanding changes in cloud cover is essential for predicting weather patterns and assessing the impact of climate change.

Beyond Gravity, headquartered in Zurich, Switzerland, and with operations in Vienna, Austria, is at the forefront of providing technology for space missions. With 25 navigation receivers already in space, the company is a key player in the space industry, supporting both established space programs and New Space initiatives.