e2v imaging sensors are launched into space onboard NASA’s new Earth observation satellite – NPP
On the 28 October 2011, e2v high performance imaging sensors were launched into space onboard NASA’s new Earth observation satellite; the National Polar-orbiting Operational Environmental Satellite System Preparatory Project (NPP).
The NPP satellite will measure global climate changes and key weather variables, and is the first mission designed to collect critical data to improve weather forecasts in the short-term and increase our understanding of long-term climate change.
The satellite carries five instruments which will capture data on the environment such as the ozone layer, land cover, atmospheric temperatures and ice cover, which are critical for global change science. e2v imaging sensors equip the Ozone Mapping and Profiler Suite (OMPS) built by Ball Aerospace & Technologies Corp, an advanced suite of three hyperspectral instruments which measure the ozone by collecting light from the sun that has been reflected off of the atmosphere. Ozone molecules absorb particular frequencies of light and these absorption signatures are used to calculate the amount of ozone present over the entire globe. Ozone is an important molecule in the atmosphere because it partially blocks harmful ultra-violet light from the sun.
The e2v imaging sensors for the OMPS instrument are a custom design, using a proprietary back-illumination technology to optimise the performance in the optical wavebands of interest. They have been subjected to a rigorous qualification process to ensure that they can withstand the requirements of this operational mission.
Jon Kemp, marketing manager for imaging at e2v said “We are extremely pleased to have supplied sensors for the OMPS instrument on the NPP satellite. We are again enabling Ball Aerospace & Technologies Corp. to supply a high performance instrument for NASA’s Earth observation mission, which will extend our knowledge of our world.”
PRESS OFFICE CONTACT:
Jessica Broom jessica.broom@e2v.com Tel: + 44 (0) 1245 453 607
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About e2v
e2v is a leading global provider of specialist technology for high performance systems and equipment; delivering solutions, sub-systems and components for specialist applications within medical & science, aerospace & defence, and commercial & industrial markets.
e2v is headquartered in the UK, employs approximately 1500 people, has design and production facilities across Europe and North America, and has a global network of sales and technical support offices. For the year ended 31 March 2011, e2v reported sales of £229m and is listed on the London Stock Exchange. For more information visit e2v.com.