Discovery and characterization of on-orbit degradation of the VisibleInfrared Imaging Radiometer Suite (VIIRS) Rotating TelescopeAssembly (RTA)

摘要: The Suomi National Polar-orbiting Partnership (NPP) satellite was launched on Oct. 28, 2011, and began the commissioning phase of several its instruments shortly thereafter. One these instruments, VIIRS, found to exhibit a gradual but persistent decrease in the optical throughput bands, with near-infrared bands being more affected than those visible. rate degradation quickly increased upon opening nadir door that permits VIIRS telescope to view earth. Simultaneously, second instrument NPP, Solar Diffuser Stability Monitor (SDSM), experiencing similar response, leading investigation team suspect that the cause must be result some common contamination process. This paper will discuss series experiments that were performed demonstrate SDSM response changes were due separate causes, which enabled conclude sensor ultraviolet light exposure the rotating assembly. root cause addressed separate paper.