ESA's Groundbreaking Harmony Mission Set to Transform Climate Science with Advanced Infrared Technology

The European Space Agency (ESA) is on the verge of revolutionizing our understanding of climate interactions with its upcoming Harmony mission, powered by pioneering thermal infrared instruments developed by ABB. Scheduled for launch in 2029, these two satellites will provide unprecedented insights into the intricate energy exchanges at the ocean-atmosphere interface.

ABB was chosen by German space technology firm OHB System AG to create the thermal infrared payloads that will enhance the scientific capabilities of the Harmony satellites. Equipped with cutting-edge multispectral thermal infrared sensors, the satellites will gather crucial environmental data, including real-time measurements of sea surface temperatures and comprehensive tracking of cloud positions and movements.

Thanks to ABB’s state-of-the-art multiview TIR (Thermal Infrared) instruments, ESA will achieve remarkable accuracy in measuring cloud dynamics and surface temperatures, which is essential for climate modeling and predicting extreme weather phenomena, such as hurricanes. This mission aims to bolster our ability to forecast weather patterns and respond effectively to natural disasters.

In addition to monitoring atmospheric conditions, the Harmony satellites will play a vital role in terrestrial geohazards assessment. They will monitor tiny shifts in land surfaces, which can indicate geological events like earthquakes and volcanic eruptions, enhancing our ability to prepare for and mitigate the impacts of such events.

Florence Hélière, Harmony Project Manager at ESA, expressed excitement about the mission's potential: 'Harmony is poised to further enhance our understanding of how our planet works by delivering valuable data that will benefit Earth system science and climate research. The expertise and commitment of our industrial partners are invaluable for the Harmony mission, helping us to deliver timely scientific insights.'

Agustina Alvarez Toledo from OHB System AG emphasized ABB’s proven expertise, stating, 'We selected ABB for this high-profile mission because of their extensive background in infrared sensor technologies. Our past collaborations have shown us their capability, and we look forward to advancing science together.'

Jacques Mulbert, President of ABB Measurement & Analytics, noted the importance of this mission: 'ABB's purpose is to enable a more sustainable and resource-efficient future, and we are proud to contribute to a program that will deepen humanity's understanding of climate change. This work demonstrates our capabilities in providing accurate cloud positioning and sea surface measurement from space, vital for safeguarding our planet's future.'

The Harmony satellites will operate in tandem with the Copernicus Sentinel-1 satellite, allowing for enhanced data acquisition through the synergy of radar and thermal infrared observations. The project aims to offer a wealth of information regarding upper-ocean heat exchanges, the triggers behind extreme weather, and the long-term consequences of climate change. Additionally, data collected will shed light on the impact of glacial melt on rising sea levels, contributing to a more comprehensive understanding of our planet's complex climate system.

As the launch date approaches, excitement builds within the scientific community, with expectations high that Harmony will pave the way for crucial advancements in climate science and disaster preparedness over the coming decades.