Super-wide-area atmosphere and ocean observation technology

IoT satellite earth observation technology

Global-scale observation of unexplored areas (such as oceans) through satellite/IoT sensing technology

Current research

"Super-wide-area atmosphere and ocean observation technology" can directly observe the atmosphere and oceans — at low power consumption and low cost — through IoT sensors installed in all areas of the Earth that have hitherto been difficult to observe directly on a constant and real-time basis. By developing super-wide-area IoT sensing in conjunction with low-earth-orbit satellites and HAPS, we will be able to collect data that will enable more extensive and real-time observations than are currently possible, improve the accuracy of extreme weather forecasts, and help solve climate-change issues.

We aim to establish super-wide-area atmosphere and ocean observation technology through "super-wide-area IoT sensing technology" based on the "in-orbit demonstration of a 920-MHz-band satellite IoT platform utilizing satellite MIMO technology," which was adopted as a theme concerning demonstration of innovative satellite technology by the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) in May 2020.

Our research team has been collecting in-situ observation data, such as measurements taken directly beneath typhoons, with the aim of overcoming the limitations of improving accuracy in weather forecasts that rely on remote sensing by weather satellites. Specifically, we consider requirements for satellite IoT sensors, such as selection of sensors corresponding to measurement targets, weather conditions depending on the installation location (such as on or under the sea), communication speed with the satellite, communication method based on frequency, antenna design, and power consumption.

We will also expand the scope of observations to include linear-rainband zones, collect in-situ observation data that will contribute to improving forecast accuracy, optimize the observation system through virtual observations, establish forecasting technology relating to extreme weather using in-situ observation data, and contribute to the creation of a society that can adapt to increasingly extreme weather phenomena and global environmental changes.

Additionally, through joint experiments and joint research with national and corporate research institutes and universities as well as through alliances with manufacturer-affiliated companies, we will verify the importance of the technology and use cases in a manner that leads to the development of NTT Group's space business.

Super-wide-area atmosphere and ocean observation technology

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Related contents

・Press release, May 23, 2023
NTT and OIST make the First Simultaneous Atmospheric and Marine Observations Directly beneath a violent, Category 5 Typhoon in the North-West Pacific

・Press release, January 25, 2023
NTT and Yokohama National University Begin Joint Research Aimed at Improving the Accuracy of Typhoon Forecasting --Helping to mitigate the damage caused by typhoons to build a safer and more secure society--

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