SBIR/STTR
Generalized Geophysical Retrieval and Analysis Tool for Planetary Atmospheres, Phase I
Project Introduction
CPI proposes to develop an innovative, generalized retrieval algorithm and analysis tool (GRANT) that will facilitate analysis of remote sensing data from both terrestrial and planetary atmospheres, and that is applicable to a wide range of NASA's remote sensing missions. GRANT will be based upon a generic and flexible implementation of the optimal estimation inversion technique for atmospheric retrievals (OPT), and be driven by a state-of-the-art FUV-NIR atmospheric radiance model (AURIC) for its forward model. GRANT will possess a flexible, user-configurable sensor model for generating realistic simulated data that tailors the retrieval algorithm to a specific sensor and measurement system. The anticipated Phase I result will be a working prototype analysis tool for application to terrestrial and planetary atmospheres. This prototype will be validated against a focused set of existing retrieval algorithms using remote sensing data from several NASA and DoD sensors. Phase II will yield a prototype that includes additional retrievable geophysical parameters, has a graphical user interface, incorporates a detailed formal error analysis capability, and has improved forward modeling capabilities such as energetic particle transport and enhanced Visible/IR modeling. The TRL levels at the start and end of Phase I are estimated to be 3 and 4, respectively.
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Anticipated Benefits
We anticipate potential commercial demand for the GRANT analysis tool from large aerospace contractors involved in the development of sensors, platforms and integrated mission design for geophysical remote sensing programs. The strongest demand in this sector will likely be for the software's simulation capabilities, which will provide a powerful diagnostic tool for evaluating competing design options in the sensor and mission development phase. We also expect demand for the software's retrieval and data processing capability from sensor vendors who continue to support operational and legacy missions through routine data production. Ball Aerospace has already recognized this potential by providing a letter of endorsement for this proposed effort. One particular application of interest is tailoring the prototype GRANT tool to support their CALIPSO program during Phase II. CALIPSO is a NASA satellite mission to study clouds and aerosols, for which Ball supplied two of the primary sensors. Ball has expressed interest in the potential of this product to improve CALIPSO data products, as well as identifying and enhancing potential new applications and future instrument modifications.
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Primary U.S. Work Locations and Key Partners
| Organizations Performing Work | Role | Type | Location |
|---|---|---|---|
Langley Research Center
(LaRC)
|
Lead Organization | NASA Center | Hampton, VA |
| Computational Physics, Inc. (CPI) | Supporting Organization | Industry | Springfield, VA |
Primary U.S. Work Locations
-
Virginia
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Organizational Responsibility
Responsible Mission Directorate:
- Space Technology Mission Directorate (STMD)
Lead Center / Facility:
- Langley Research Center (LaRC)
Responsible Program:
- SBIR/STTR
Project Management
Program Director:
Program Manager:
Project Manager:
Principal Investigator:
- Jerry Lumpe
Project Duration
Start: Feb 2011
End: Sep 2011
Technology Maturity (TRL)
| Start: | 3 |
| Current: | 3 |
| Estimated End: | 4 |
Applied Research
Development
Demo & Test
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