The Cyclone Global Navigation Satellite System (CYGNSS) is a NASA Earth science mission that was launched to improve hurricane and tropical cyclone forecasting. This innovative satellite system employs a constellation of eight micro-satellites orbiting in low Earth orbit.
CYGNSS utilizes a novel technique by measuring the surface roughness of the world's oceans to provide essential data on hurricane intensification. By analyzing the reflected signals from GPS satellites, the system assesses the wind speed and latent heat flux near the ocean's surface, contributing to more accurate and timely hurricane predictions.
This mission significantly enhances our understanding of tropical cyclones, aiding in early warnings and helping vulnerable coastal communities prepare for severe weather events.
