A Microwave Temperature Profiler for HIAPER

Schematic diagram of the HIAPER Microwave Temperature Profiler (MTP) assembly. The receiver and other components are contained within this aerodynamic fairing that will be attached to a wing. The transparent window is illustrated in white.

The Microwave Temperature Profiler (MTP) is a passive radiometric sensor that measures brightness temperature at multiple frequencies and elevation angles. Retrieval algorithms applied to the measurements yield temperature profiles above and below the aircraft. Earlier versions of the MTP were developed and deployed by Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL), and now the JPL group has been tasked with building a customized MTP for HIAPER, the NCAR Gulfstream-V. Following delivery of the sensor to NCAR, JPL and NCAR staff will work jointly to certify and install the sensor on the G-V. The JPL PI will also train NCAR staff on sensor operation and maintenance, as well as data processing, quality control, and analysis.  This work is funded by the NSF HIAPER Airborne Instrumentation Solicitation (HAIS) and is led at NCAR by J. Haggerty (RAL/EOL).

FY06 Accomplishments

An extended contract negotiation period delayed commencement of this project until April, 2006. Shortly thereafter, a Preliminary Design Review (PDR) was presented at NCAR, and the proposed design was approved by the contract technical representative. Since the PDR, efforts have focused on design of the aerodynamic fairing for the sensor. This task is the responsibility of NCAR/EOL Design and Fabrication Services with input from the JPL team.

FY07 Plans

A critical design review (CDR) is scheduled for October, 2006. Subsequent to the CDR, training on instrument operation and maintenance, data processing, and temperature profile retrieval methods will begin at JPL and NCAR. Delivery of the HIAPER MTP and associated software systems is scheduled for spring, 2007. Training of scientific, engineering, and technical staff will continue at NCAR after delivery.