The MIRAS demonstrator pilot project

MIRAS (Microwave Imaging Radiometer with Aperture Synthesis) is a microwave radiometer to measure Ocean Salinity and Soil Moisture (SMOS). Both parameters have a strong scientific interest in understanding the water cycle behaviour. MIRAS measurements are based on the microwave sensitivity changes in the dielectric constant due to humidity and salinity content. Aperture synthesis allows one to obtain good spatial resolution and radiometric sensitivity with a thinned antenna. SMOS mission (MIRAS) has been selected within the Earth Observation programme of ESA for a launch in mid 2005. CASA Space Division is leading a pre-phase A technology demonstrator of MIRAS by building one L-band segment to consolidate the technology and to limit risk and mission cost. CASA will lead the phase A technology programme whose kick-off will be before summer 2000.