First Images Released From Israeli-German Cloud-Mapping Satellite

The first satellite in the CloudCT network has transmitted its initial observations from orbit, marking a significant step for the joint Israeli-German project. This small satellite, weighing only about four kilograms, was developed through a collaboration between Israel's Technion, the Weizmann Institute of Science, and Germany's Center for Telemetry. The initial images provide views over central France and the Baltic Sea, showcasing the satellite's unique imaging capabilities.

One image highlights light intensity, distinguishing clouds in the upper left from deep space in the lower right. Researchers explained that the CloudCT camera perceives light differently than the human eye, causing vegetated areas to appear gray. A second image displays the polarized component of light using false colors, where brighter pixels indicate more polarized light. This polarization information, invisible to humans, offers crucial data about cloud droplets.

The project, led by Professor Ilan Koren from the Weizmann Institute, Professor Yoav Schechner from the Technion, and Professor Klaus Schilling from the Center for Telemetry, with support from the European Research Council, was launched successfully by SpaceX on July 7th. The satellite is currently undergoing tests before entering operational service.

Professor Schilling noted the challenge of precisely coordinating ten small satellites in formation flight, emphasizing the need for advanced guidance and control systems for autonomous operation. The team's innovative approach, inspired by medical CT scans, aims to create 3D maps of cloud interiors and measure microphysical properties. This method utilizes artificial intelligence to assess the reliability of the mapping, enabling scientists to gain unprecedented insights into cloud structures and dynamics.