The Cyclone Global Navigation Satellite System (CYGNSS) - Analysis and Data Assimilation for Tropical Convection

Abstract

Cyclone Global Navigation Satellite System (CYGNSS): a constellation of 8 micro-satellite observatories launched in November 2016, to measure near-surface oceanic wind speed. Main goal: To monitor surface wind fields of the Tropical Cyclones' inner core, including regions beneath the intense eye wall and rain bands that could not previously be measured from space; Cover 38 deg S -38 deg N with unprecedented temporal resolution and spatial coverage, under all precipitating conditions Low flying satellite: Pass over ocean surface more frequently than one large satellite. A median(mean) revisit time of 2.8(7.2) hrs