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ICESat-2 Early Mission Synopsis and Observatory Performance
Lori Magruder1,2, Thomas Neumann3, Nathan Kurtz3
1Applied Research Laboratories University of Texas at Austin Austin TX USA.
Earth and Space Science (Hoboken, N.J.)
|July 16, 2021
Summary
The Ice, Cloud, and land Elevation Satellite-2 (ICESat-2) mission uses the Advanced Topographic Laser Altimetry System (ATLAS) for global elevation data. Its performance enables precise cryospheric and other Earth observations for scientific research.
Area of Science:
- Earth Science
- Cryospheric Science
- Geodesy
Background:
- The Ice, Cloud, and land Elevation Satellite-2 (ICESat-2) mission continues global elevation studies.
- It utilizes the Advanced Topographic Laser Altimetry System (ATLAS) for high-resolution measurements.
- ICESat-2 builds upon the legacy of its predecessor, ICESat.
Purpose of the Study:
- Provide a comprehensive overview of the ICESat-2 mission and its ATLAS instrument.
- Detail the operational components and performance of the ATLAS altimeter system.
- Assess the spacecraft's attitude control for precise, repeatable measurements.
Main Methods:
- Mission overview and instrument description.
- Analysis of on-orbit observatory performance.
- Evaluation of spacecraft attitude control systems.
Main Results:
- ATLAS has collected over a trillion measurements since ICESat-2 launch.
- The system achieves repeat measurements within 10 meters.
- Pointing control is maintained within ±45 meters.
Conclusions:
- ICESat-2's ATLAS system provides crucial data for ice sheet mass balance and sea ice monitoring.
- Global observations support secondary objectives including biomass estimation and inland water elevation.
- The demonstrated precision metrics are vital for validation and scientific investigations.
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