[M-SD35] Future Missions of Satellite Earth Observation

[MSD35-03] Realization of pseudo high-frequency high-resolution observation by combined observation of geostationary satellite and orbiting satellite –Ground Verification-

*Hidetake Hirayama¹, Koji Kajiwara², Ayako Sekiyama¹, Sawahiko Shimada¹, Yoshiaki Honda² (1.Faculty of Regional Environment Science, Tokyo University of Agriculture, 2.Center for Environmental Remote Sensing, Chiba University)

Keywords:Geostationary satellite, Orbiting satellite, Himawari, GCOM-C, ALOS

From the perspectives of both earth science and practical applications, there is a growing demand for higher-frequency and higher-resolution observation data from earth observation optical sensors. The next-generation Himawari-10, designed to enable high-frequency observations, will begin production in 2023, with operations scheduled to start in 2029. However, it is not feasible to achieve both high-frequency and high-resolution observations simultaneously with a single satellite. To address this, multiple microsatellites are being considered. Nevertheless, microsatellites generally face challenges such as short design lifespans and the absence of calibration systems. In contrast, medium- and large-sized satellites, including geostationary satellites, offer longer design lifespans and robust calibration systems. However, achieving both high-frequency and high-resolution observations with such satellites would require an enormous budget, making it impractical to deploy the necessary number of satellites.

This proposal aims to generate pseudo high-frequency and high-resolution observation data by combining high-frequency observations from relatively low-resolution geostationary satellites with high-resolution but low-frequency observations from orbiting satellites launched by Japan (such as successors to Himawari, GCOM-C, and ALOS). The objective is to develop pseudo data models that adjust for differences in sensor specifications and observation geometries, thereby establishing a framework for providing high-quality, long-term observation data. This approach enables the sustained availability of satellite optical sensor data for both scientific research and practical applications, advancing scientific knowledge and expanding practical uses.