Microwave Radiometry at Frequencies From 500 to 1400 MHz: An Emerging Technology for Earth Observations.

Microwave radiometry has provided valuable spaceborne observations of Earth's geophysical properties for decades. The recent SMOS, Aquarius, and SMAP satellites have demonstrated the value of measurements at 1400 MHz for observing surface soil moisture, sea surface salinity, sea ice thickness, soil freeze/thaw state, and other geophysical variables. However, the information obtained is limited by penetration through the subsurface at 1400 MHz and by a reduced sensitivity to surface salinity in cold or wind-roughened waters.

A Compact LIF Spectrometer for in-Field Operation in Polar Environments.

We present a compact laser-induced fluorescence (LIF) spectrometer prototype (SFIDA-405) designed for in-field operation in polar environments. It uses 405 nm excitation to acquire LIF spectra in the 450-930 nm spectral range on a solid surface via an optical-fiber coupled measurement head. The prototype (battery powered; module + measurement head weight: <1.