NIGHT-TIME HEAT RETENTION SATELLITE IN LOW-LYING URBAN AREAS

The process of rapid urbanization has amplified the UHI phenomenon, especially in low-lying areas where high-density infrastructure, low levels of vegetation, and low rates of air circulation have been observed to result in high nighttime temperatures. It is therefore critical to recognize the process of heat retention and dissipation in the urban landscape. Currently, the satellites used for Earth observation have been seen to offer high spatial resolution at the expense of high frequency or vice versa.

This study aims to propose the conceptual design of a night-time heat retention monitoring micro-satellite to enhance thermal observation in low-lying urban areas. The micro-satellite is intended to operate in Low Earth Orbit (LEO), focusing on night-time observation, where heat retention in urban areas is most prominent and solar interference is at a minimum. The payload consists of an uncooled long-wave infrared (LWIR) microbolometer sensor with a wavelength range of 8-14 µm and an optical system with a focal length of approximately 270-290 mm. The satellite is intended to operate in the micro-satellite range of 20-30 kg, with a payload mass of approximately 5 kg and an average power consumption of 35-40 W.

Preliminary analysis indicates that the system has the capability to observe neighborhood-scale nighttime thermal patterns, as well as identify areas of localized heat retention within dense buildings, parks, lakes, and other urban infrastructure. The mission can be beneficial for urban climate studies.