Linearly polarized GNSS radio occultation measurements for characterizing precipitation - An AMS encore presentation

PlanetiQ operates multiple satellites that acquire and generate GNSS Polarized Radio Occultation (PRO) data. Each satellite is equipped with a high-gain dual linear polarization antenna, replacing the previous-generation right-hand circular polarization (RCP) dual-column antenna design.

In addition to collecting standard GNSS radio occultation (RO) profiles, these upgraded antennas enable the satellites to acquire PRO profiles that characterize heavy liquid precipitation, snowfall, and certain cloud types. Collectively, the constellation captures more than 2,000 PRO profiles per day.

The dual linear polarization antennas also support the acquisition of reflected signals for GNSS-Reflectometry (GNSS-R) applications. We will present an initial assessment of how sensitivity and performance vary with signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) and other factors, and evaluate the extent to which higher SNR improves detection of lighter precipitation and specific cloud formations.

Finally, we will summarize performance over land versus ocean and demonstrate the relative insensitivity of these measurements to variations in surface conditions and underlying emissivity. This robustness enables truly global observational coverage.