Assessing the Feasibility of Small Satellite Observations of Gravity Waves in the Upper Atmosphere Induced by Tropical Cyclones

Gravity waves from deep convection have been observed to propagate upwards, causing disruptions in the ionosphere and impacting communication systems. This study presents a novel methodology designed for miniaturized CubeSat payloads for observing the interactions between tropical cyclones and the upper atmosphere, utilizing measurements of cloud top temperatures and the nocturnal mesospheric and ionospheric airglow signatures of gravity waves. Utilizing sensors across visible, near-infrared, and thermal infrared wavelengths, a low-cost constellation of CubeSats in Low Earth Orbit enables high spatial resolution, sub-hourly measurements of rapidly intensifying convection, with a particular emphasis on observing nocturnal overshooting tops. The sub-hourly resolution would allow for a more detailed observation and analysis of the propagation and characteristics of these gravity waves, providing insights into their direct and secondary impacts on ionospheric disturbances. To assess the feasibility of the proposed approach, Sentinel 2 imagery are processed to illustrate the basic methodology, and the initial results are used to discuss the feasibility for such measurements to increase the observability of tropical cyclone interactions with the upper atmosphere. Such observations would provide the opportunity to refine atmospheric models and improve forecasting accuracy for impacts on communication systems, ultimately on operational timescales.