On 8 May 2023 NASA’s Time-Resolved Observations of Precipitation structure and storm Intensity with a Constellation of Smallsats (TROPICS) mission was launched by Rocket Lab's Electron rocket. This is the first of two launches needed to deploy this new satellite asset that will monitor the formation and evolution of tropical cyclones, including hurricanes, and will provide rapidly updating observations of storm intensity. This data will help scientists better understand the processes that affect these high-impact storms, ultimately leading to improved modelling and prediction.
This first mission, called "Rocket Like A Hurricane", was Rocket Lab's 36th Electron launch overall and lifted off from Rocket Lab Launch Complex 1 in Mahia, New Zealand. The second mission, called "Coming To A Storm Near You", is scheduled to launch later in May.
NASA’s TROPICS constellation is part of NASA’s Earth System Science Pathfinder Program, and it consists of four CubeSats that require launch to a specific orbit at an altitude of 550 kilometres and inclination of about 30 degrees. All four satellites need to be deployed into their operational orbit within a 60-day period, making small Electron the ideal launch vehicle as it enables dedicated launch to unique orbits on highly responsive timelines. The two missions will now be in orbit in time for the North American 2023 hurricane season.
Our WISA Woodsat will also ride Electron to space, as soon as the launch permits and paperwork is done.
Watch the launch below or at Rocket Lac's YouTube channel.