Onderzoeksproject PX/8/SS/15 (Onderzoeksactie PX)
The project covers the development at the RMIB of the total solar irradiance radiometer SOVAP (SOVA-Picard, SOVA= SOlar VAriability) for flight on the French microsatellite PICARD. PICARD is foreseen to be launched by the French space agency CNES in 2008. The PICARD payload is coordinated by the SA (Service d’Aeronomie) of the CNRS.
The current project proposal includes the design, the construction of the electronics and part of the construction of the mechanics, and the caracterisation and ground testing of a prototype and a flight SOVAP radiometer. The construction of the outer box surrounding the SOVAP flight radiometer will be covered by the SA. After use for development and testing purposes, it is intended to use the prototype SOVAP radiometer in the reference group of surface solar radiometers maintained at the World Radiation Center for ground comparisons at Davos.
The measurements of the total solar irradiance are made in order to quantify the influence of solar variations on the climate change on earth.
Satellite(s) or flight opportunity(ies):
- PICARD
Field of research:
Space Sciences: Solar Physics / Earth Observation: Meteorology and Climatology
