AIRBORNE DEMONSTRATION OF HYPERSPECTRAL MICROWAVE OBSERVATIONS

S. Fox¹, M. Henry², P. Huggard³, S. Parkes⁴, D. Tiddeman¹, R. King¹, M. Belal², J. Bowles¹, A. Wilson¹

¹Met Office, ²Spire Global, ³STFC RAL Space, ⁴STAR-Dundee

Hyperspectral microwave remote sensing is an emerging technique that exploits fine-scale spectral structure in microwave absorption bands. This has the potential for improved characterization of temperature and humidity profiles, as well as providing greater opportunity to detect and mitigate against radio frequency interference (RFI). We describe the SERMON radiometer (Spectrosopic system for EnviRonmental MONitoring), a new airborne instrument developed collaboratively by the Met Office, STFC RAL Space, STAR-Dundee, and Spire Global, with the aim of advancing hyperspectral microwave instrumentation for future satellite missions.

SERMON makes spectrally-resolved observations in the 50-60GHz oxygen absorption band and 183GHz water vapour absorption band with a nominal spectral resolution of up to 300kHz. It has been installed and flown on the UK’s FAAM research aircraft. We describe the instrument design and calibration approach, and show preliminary results from a recent flight campaign aimed at evaluating the instrument performance and demonstrating the enhanced capabilities of hyperspectral observations.