Adapting ABI to Operations in Inclined Orbits

The Advanced Baseline Imager (ABI) is the primary instrument on the GOES-R series for weather and environmental monitoring. With three times the spectral bands, four times the spatial resolution, and five times the image collection rate of previous generation instruments, ABI significantly improves the quality and frequency of existing data products and provides many new weather and environmental products.

GOES-R mission requirements specify tight control of satellites to within +/- 0.1 degrees in latitude and longitude at the equator for the nominal operational and checkout orbits, and the GOES-R series satellites have performed well within these constraints. The ABI design assessed performance against instrument requirements with the assumption that this orbit box bounds operational cases. In 2024, a study was completed to assess the impact to ABI operation, performance, and ground processing for orbits with large (up to 5 deg) inclination. Allowing a satellite orbit to increase in inclination, while maintaining average EW position, can extend mission life significantly by minimizing fuel required for station keeping. Results of this study are presented, including expected performance and operational constraints required to operate ABI-class instruments in inclined orbits.