NFYK13016U Satellite Geophysics

Volume 2013/2014
Education
MSc Programme in Physics
Content

The purpose of this course is that the student obtains a fundamental knowledge of Earth-orbiting geophysical satellites, their orbits and sensors, as well as calibration and assimilation of data in global and regional models. Emphasis is on obtaining an understanding of the relationship between the different satellites and their observations.

This course gives a basic knowledge of coordinate-systems (including physical height-systems) and the movement of the Earth in an inertial system (rotation, polar movement, nutation etc.). Satellite orbits are described through the Kepler-elements and their time variation. Both geostationary and variable orbits are treated  as well as the relationship between orbit radius and inclination.

Satellites  or systems  such as the Global Navigation Satellite Systems (GNSS), SPOT, ASTER, ERS 1/2, ENVISAT, Starlet,  observing the Earth topography and positions are discussed with emphasis on changes (InSar).

The same satellites plus T/P, Jason, CRYOSAT2, IceSAT, GRACE used to observe ice and ocean surfaces and salinity are introduced, with special emphasis on satellite radar altimetry.)

Methods and sensors used to observe the atmosphere and the ionosphere  (vertical profilings of temperature and chemical composition, radiation, climatic changes) are introduced using EUMESAT satellites (Meteosat and METOP), GNSS (GPS), ATSR and NOAA-Satellites.

Satellites observing the gravity or magnetic fields are treated (Ørsted, SWARM, GRACE, GOCE, METOP, METEOSAT-SG).

Learning Outcome

Skills
The student will obtain a fundamental understanding of satellite orbits and the consequences for the distribution of data in space and time. The students will have an overview of the  sensors of geophysical importance which are flown on satellites, their function, utilization and calibration. The student will also be able to explain the relationship between satellites and satellite systems.

Knowledge
The students will be able to:

  • Describe the relationship between satellite orbits, observation time and acquired data.
  • Understand the use of series of solid spherical harmonics used to describe the gravity and magnetic fields, and the relationship with the satellite sensors used.
  • Describe position determination using GNSS and the disturbances due to the troposphere and ionosphere and the use to map these fields.
  • Describe satellites, the physics and the instruments enabling sensors to map the vertical profile of the atmosphere (circulation, chemistry, temperature and radiation)
  • Understand the basics behind assimilation of satellite profiling data in numerical weather prediction models.
  • Describe the principles behind SAR and InSAR.
  • Can give examples on how satellite systems support each other.

Competences
the student will be able to evaluate a satellite mission, or design a new mission to obtain geophysical data both in terms of the orbital parameters (semi-major axis, inclination), mission lifetime and sensors.
The student will be able to determine precise positions using GNSS (GPS).
The student will be able to use a mathematical model in order to assimilate data from satellites.
This course will provide the students with a competent background for further studies within this  field, i.e. a M.Sc. project

Literature
CEOS EO Handbook (http:/​/​www.eohandbook.com/​ ), W.Kaula, Satellite Geodesy, 1966, (Dover Reprint), Articles (available on the course web-site), Seeber: Satellite Geodesy (selected chapters), 1993, Parts of: Wallace and Hobs, Atmospheric Science, An introductory Survey, 2006. GOCE user Tutorial , https:/​/​earth.esa.int/​c/​document_library/​get_file?folderId=15547&name=DLFE-215.pdf
Completed B.S. in physics, specialized in geophysics.
Mathematics and physics as contained in the B.S. in physics or geophysics.
Lectures, exercises (classroom and field), visit to institutions. Duration 7 weeks.
laptop matlab is required
  • Category
  • Hours
  • Exam
  • 56
  • Excursions
  • 5
  • Lectures
  • 36
  • Practical exercises
  • 9
  • Preparation
  • 73
  • Theory exercises
  • 27
  • Total
  • 206
Credit
7,5 ECTS
Type of assessment
Written assignment
Report to be handed in 14 days after the end of the course.
Marking scale
7-point grading scale
Censorship form
No external censorship
More internal censors
Re-exam
Re-examination through a new report.
Criteria for exam assesment
See Skills.