In a recent press release, NASA announced its partnership with the Raytheon Company to provide three instruments and related services for the Landsat Next mission based at NASA’s Goddard Space Flight Center in Greenbelt, Maryland. The contract, valued at $506.7 million, includes the option for an additional instrument and covers design, engineering analyses, fabrication, testing, delivery, and support for the Landsat Next Instruments.
The Landsat Next mission is a significant component of NASA’s Earth science portfolio, aimed at advancing Earth observing technologies, science, and applications. This next-generation program will build upon the success of previous Landsat missions by continuing the space-based record of Earth’s land surface while significantly enhancing the resolution and quality of data available to the public, government agencies, industry, and academia.
One of the key advancements of the Landsat Next mission is the transition from a single spacecraft to a constellation of three smaller satellites. This new constellation will offer improved temporal, spatial, and spectral resolution, providing researchers and stakeholders with a more comprehensive and detailed understanding of Earth’s land surface dynamics.
The 26-band super-spectral Landsat Next constellation promises to revolutionize existing Landsat applications and unlock new possibilities in various fields. From monitoring water quality and crop production to managing forests and studying climate dynamics, the enhanced capabilities of Landsat Next will support a wide range of applications critical for sustainable land management and environmental conservation.
This mission represents a collaborative effort between NASA and the U.S. Geological Survey under the Sustainable Land Imaging Program. By harnessing cutting-edge technology and scientific expertise, Landsat Next aims to more effectively map, monitor, and manage America’s land, water, and coastal resources for the benefit of society and the environment.
In conclusion, the selection of Raytheon Company for the Landsat Next mission marks a significant step forward in advancing Earth observing technologies and expanding our knowledge of the planet. With its innovative approach and advanced capabilities, Landsat Next is poised to build upon the legacy of the Landsat program and contribute to a better understanding of Earth’s complex systems for the benefit of current and future generations.
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Read the NASA press release for more information. https://www.nasa.gov/news-release/nasa-selects-raytheon-company-to-build-landsat-next-instruments/
Source: NASA
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