Current Research Projects – Institute of Geodesy

New Measurement Concepts with Laser Interferometers (CRC 1464, B01)

We will study a new type of optical accelerometer (ACC) and gradiometer, advance Laser Ranging Interferometry (LRI) technology conceptually to enable new satellite constellations, and investigate observations of the angular line-of-sight velocity for gravity field recovery with simulations.

Led by: Prof. Dr.-Ing. Jürgen Müller, Dr. Vitali Müller

Team: Alexey Kupriyanov, Arthur Reis

Year: 2021

Funding: DFG

Duration: 2021-2024

Hybridization of Classic and Quantum Accelerometers for Future Satellite Gravity Missions

Using cold atom interferometry (CAI) accelerometers in the next generation of satellite gravimetry missions can provide long-term stability and precise measurements of the non-gravitational forces acting on the satellites. This allows for a reduction of systematic effects in current GRACE-FO gravity field solutions. In this project, we first aim to investigate the hybridization of quantum CAI-based and classical accelerometers for a GRACE-like mission and we discusse the performance improvement through dedicated simulations. Then we investigate different orbital configurations and mission concepts to find the optimal setting for future satellite gravimetry missions.

Led by: Prof. Dr.-Ing. Müller

Team: Dr. Alireza HosseiniArani

Year: 2020

Earth System Mass Transport Mission (e.motion)

Led by: Jakob Flury

Year: 2013