A constellation concept for microwave interferometric radiometry from geostationary orbit

A novel concept for interferometric radiometry at arbitrary microwave frequencies using a constellation of formation-flying spacecraft is presented. The concept improves on the achievable spatial resolution by several factors compared to single-satellite (monolithic) interferometers. Two configurations are found suitable to establish synthetic apertures of 14.4 m and larger. These aperture sizes will enable microwave radiometry from the geostationary orbit at frequencies lower than 53 GHz.