Earth system mass transport mission (e.motion): A concept for future Earth gravity field measurements from space

Panet, I.; Flury, J.; Biancale, R.; Gruber, T.; Johannessen, J.; van den Broeke, M.; van Dam, T.; Gegout, P.; Hughes, C. ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-9355-0233; Ramillien, G.; Sasgen, I.; Seoane, L.; Thomas, M.. 2013 Earth system mass transport mission (e.motion): A concept for future Earth gravity field measurements from space. Surveys in Geophysics, 34 (2). 141-163. 10.1007/s10712-012-9209-8

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Abstract/Summary

In the last decade, satellite gravimetry has revealed itself as a pioneering technique for mapping mass redistributions within the Earth system, and has allowed for an improved understanding of the dynamic processes that take place within and between its various constituents. Results from the GRACE (Gravity Recovery and Climate Experiment) mission have revolutionized Earth system research and established the necessity for future satellite gravity missions. In 2010, a comprehensive team of European and Canadian scientists and industrial partners proposed the e.motion (Earth System Mass Transport Mission) concept to the European Space Agency. The proposal is based on two tandem satellites in a pendulum orbit configuration at an altitude of about 370 km, carrying a laser interferometer inter-satellite ranging instrument and improved accelerometers. In this paper, we review and discuss a wide range of mass signals related to the global water cycle and to solid Earth deformations that were outlined in the e.motion proposal. The technological and mission challenges that need to be addressed in order to detect these signals are emphasized within the context of the scientific return. This analysis presents a broad perspective on the value and need for future satellite gravimetry missions.

Item Type:	Publication - Article
Digital Object Identifier (DOI):	10.1007/s10712-012-9209-8
Programmes:	NOC Programmes > Marine Physics and Ocean Climate
NORA Subject Terms:	Earth Sciences Hydrology Marine Sciences
Date made live:	15 Mar 2013 15:08 +0 (UTC)
URI:	https://nora.nerc.ac.uk/id/eprint/500461

Item Type:

Publication - Article

Digital Object Identifier (DOI):

10.1007/s10712-012-9209-8

Programmes:

NOC Programmes > Marine Physics and Ocean Climate

NORA Subject Terms:

Earth Sciences
Hydrology
Marine Sciences

Date made live:

15 Mar 2013 15:08 +0 (UTC)

URI:

https://nora.nerc.ac.uk/id/eprint/500461