Charting the Future of Earth Observation 2024

Charting the Future of Earth Observation: Technology Innovation for Climate Intelligence11EO satellites have evolved on two fronts: the miniaturization of sensor capabilities and the development of larger, more sophisticated satellite platforms. Miniaturized sensors, as well as reduced manufacturing and launch costs, have enabled more nations to manufacture and launch their own EO satellites and increase publicly available EO data. This revolution democratizes access to timely, high-quality climate insights for a range of stakeholders – from individuals to local decision- makers and non-governmental organizations (NGOs) – where they previously might have been unattainable due to costs or technical constraints. Conversely, the rise of larger satellites highlights a trend towards greater reliability and capability of EO satellites to host advanced sensors, data processing power and power facilities for continuous data transmission. These larger platforms can house instruments such as multispectral and hyperspectral imaging, synthetic aperture radar (SAR) and advanced radiometers. Technology pipeline: Miniaturization of EO sensors The proliferation of small EO satellites and progress in the field of material science has spurred the development of EO sensors that are not only compact and lightweight but also possess enhanced capabilities to perform complex observations compared to their predecessors. Advancements in microelectronics and semiconductor technologies have integrated greater processing power into smaller chips, facilitating data analysis on the sensor hardware itself. Advancements in 3D printing manufacturing methods have enabled the fabrication of miniaturized sensors at a lower cost. The miniaturization of sensors could create opportunities for high-altitude platform stations (HAPS) offering consistent monitoring over specific areas. Optical monitoring is already possible with HAPS, but advancements in SAR and other sensors, such as thermal infrared remote sensing, could be revolutionary for monitoring disasters such as wildfires. WildFireSat, the Canadian Space Agency’s (CSA) wildfire monitoring satellite mission, uses a new type of infrared sensor based on 10 years of development of microbolometer technology.11 With the ability to function at room temperature, these infrared sensors represent a major advancement over previous large-scale and resource-hungry sensors that required cooling to extremely low temperatures. Without the reliance on heavy equipment and high energy demands, sensors continue to become smaller and more efficient. This is particularly relevant for developing nations or SMEs who are looking to operate their own EO satellite at low costs. Technology pipeline: Embracing larger satellite designs for advanced capabilities The addition of larger EO satellites is a new trend for many EO satellite operators, who have been focused on small satellites over the past decade. This change is partly driven by anticipated reductions in launch costs for heavier payloads, facilitated by new launchers entering the market. As a result, priorities are shifting from satellite mass to capacity, performance, operational lifetime and the need for robust, high-performing and continuous EO solutions. For example, companies like Planet and Capella Space are adding to their fleet of EO satellites with significantly larger satellite bus designs. While Planet continues to provide near- daily, 3-metre monitoring via the Dove constellation, it is also expanding its offerings to larger satellite designs, such as the Pelican and Tanager systems, weighing between 100 to 200 kilograms.1.3 Parallel evolution of small and large EO satellites New radio frequencies allocated BOX 1 Governments and regulators have previously taken measures to ensure the availability of Earth Exploration Satellite Service (EESS) passive bands for crucial weather prediction activities and improved imaging activities. Recently, member states of the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) allocated additional radio spectrum for climate monitoring, weather prediction, and other scientific and satellite missions. However, the World Radiocommunication Conference (WRC) 2023 was only a partial success for EO activities. While it provided more spectrum for passive EESS, enabling advanced measurements of ice clouds for better weather forecasting and climate monitoring, it also identified critical frequencies for the measurement of sea-surface temperature (SST) to mobile phone networks (i.e. 5G). This forced the EO community to study the feasibility of SST in other frequency bands. The upcoming ITU WRC in 2027 will consider the introduction of new mobile phone networks, such as 6G, in the X band. The X band operates in the 8-12 gigahertz range and is the primary spectrum for downlinking satellite EO data. If allocated to 6G, the X band could restrict EO ground stations to remote areas, thereby reducing the resilience of the EO sector and the reliability of data transmission.