The Use of NASA GSFC Modular, Reconfigurable, Rapid (MR^2) Small Satellite for the Measurement of Greenhouse Gases

The Small Rocket/Spacecraft Technology (SMART) is an existing microsatellite prototype bus that provides the ability to accommodate focused science (and technology validation) missions without the need to spend large resources typical of high‐performing spacecraft. SMART represents the sum value of GSFC’s long tradition of developing systems that find efficient application in a series of missions, exemplified by two successful major programs: the Multi-mission Modular Spacecraft (MMS), and the Small Explorer Program (SMEX). SMART is based on an evolutionary architecture based drawn from these two experiences: the Modular, Reconfigurable, Rapid (MR2) architecture. This paper shows a SMART-derivative spacecraft (with re-sized structure) used to accommodate the Abundance of Methane via Interferometric Glint Observation (AMIGO) instrument. The principal objective of AMIGO is to map and quantify the abundance of the major greenhouse gases (particularly methane) and to identify and quantify their sources and sinks on a global basis. In addition, a Laser retro-reflector instrument of opportunity is included, to add to the constellation of spacecraft relevant to the definition and regular update of the International Terrestrial Reference Frame (ITRF).