Regarding the successor to the meteorological satellite "Himawari," which is scheduled to be launched in 2028, six years later, the Japan Meteorological Agency is equipped with the latest sensors that can observe water vapor in the atmosphere in three dimensions, such as typhoons and "linear precipitation." We have decided to improve the prediction accuracy of "obi".
The first full-scale operation of the geostationary meteorological satellite "Himawari" began 44 years ago in 1978 (Showa 53), and the current Nos. 8 and 9 will reach the end of their design useful life in 2029.
Therefore, the Japan Meteorological Agency proceeded with discussions with experts on the functions and operation of the successor aircraft, and on the 21st, clarified the basic policy.
Among them, it is said that we should aim to install the latest sensors as the weather disaster becomes more severe.
The sensor is called "Hyperspectral Infrared Sounder", and since the number of frequencies is 2000, which is dramatically increased from the current 16 types, it is possible to capture the conditions of atmospheric temperature, wind, water vapor, etc. in three dimensions. It is said that it will help improve the prediction accuracy of typhoons and linear precipitation zones where developed cumulonimbus clouds are connected one after another.
Professor Shinichi Nakasuka of the University of Tokyo Graduate School, who chairs the meeting to examine the ideal state of satellites, said, "The meteorological satellite Himawari is an important satellite used in various fields including disaster prevention. In various fields such as international contribution and industry. As the opportunities for utilization expand, the successor will play a major role, and I have high expectations for it. "
The Japan Meteorological Agency plans to launch it in 2028, and plans to start developing satellites next year.
Manufacturing costs will be included in the budget request for next year's budget.