The Canadian Space Agency (CSA) requires specialized research and development services to advance space-based Fourier Transform Spectrometer (FTS) through the FTS for Atmospheric Data Continuity and Improvement (FTS-ADCI). The Atmospheric Chemistry Experiment-FTS (ACE-FTS) successor – an FTS for FTS-ADCI would continue the critical long-term atmospheric records established by ACE-FTS onboard the SCISAT (Science Satellite) and improve detection limits for emerging atmospheric species, increase vertical (and temporal) resolution, and expand capabilities for novel measurements, including enhanced access to the lower troposphere.
The work will focus on maturing Fourier-Transform Infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy technology for observing planetary atmospheres via solar occultation, including:
• development and optimization of FTS-ADCI instrument as based on operational spaceflight FTS units;
• performance testing of the instrument such as spectral range and resolution, signal-to-noise ratio, field of view under laboratory conditions;
• performance characterization of atmospheric gas constituents relevant to air quality, atmospheric chemistry and climate change;
• optimization of instrument mass, volume and power consumption relative to heritage instruments such as ACE-FTS;
• delivery of engineering reports, design updates, and prototype hardware.
This ACAN is intended to disclose a series of procurement activities, evolving in accordance with the established Research and Development plan. This work may lead to several years of continued development in collaboration with the contractor to support the initiative, until the expected initiative is completed.