RROCI Weather Data Collection Data Collection Introduced
Arcfield Introduces New Electro-Optical/Infrared (EO/IR) Instrument
An advancement in global real-time weather data collection has been announced by Arcfield with the successful launch of its Rapid Revisit Optical Cloud Imager (RROCI). The innovative Electro-Optical/Infrared (EO/IR) sensor, designed for accurate, timely weather forecasting, provides critical weather data to government agencies, bolstering warfighter capability.
"The RROCI sensor is a prime example of our team's engineering prowess. They have unlocked SmallSat possibilities we've never seen before."
Kevin Kelly, Arcfield
Launched in early 2024 via a commercial Transporter-10 mission as part of the U.S. Space Force's EO/IR Weather System (EWS) program, RROCI was designed to provide near real-time cloud scanning and terrestrial weather data with high precision. The sensor is mounted on a 12U CubeSat, which enables its compact and efficient design. When compared to existing U.S. weather satellites, RROCI's objective was to deliver results that meet or exceed current standards in a CubeSat platform, for reduced size, weight and power sensors, highlighting its potential to set a new standard in space-based weather sensing capabilities.
"The RROCI sensor is a leap forward in our ability to deliver rapid, real-time data for critical climate and weather monitoring in an affordable manner," said Chad Fish, president and general manager of Orion Space Solutions, a wholly owned subsidiary of Arcfield. "There are no other sensors currently on the market that have the potential to provide this quality of data from a platform of this size, showing just how powerful and effective miniaturized technology can be in tackling major global challenges."
By using advanced proprietary sensors and commercially available systems with a compact, powerful design, RROCI can enable affordable deployment across satellite constellations, offering a level of coverage previously unattainable.
"We're incredibly proud of how Orion Space Solutions is pushing the boundaries of space-based weather prediction," said Kevin Kelly, chairman and CEO of Arcfield. "The RROCI sensor is a prime example of our team's engineering prowess. They have unlocked SmallSat possibilities we've never seen before, which will drive both national defense and resilience in ways that truly matter."
RROCI's data can deliver substantial benefits not only to the Department of Defense and civil space, but also to the commercial sector. By enhancing civilian weather prediction accuracy, the sensor bolsters emergency response capabilities, improving global safety and preparedness. Following the conclusion of the EWS program, Orion Space Solutions plans to make the RROCI sensor technology broadly available to government and commercial entities as the Spectre Electro-Optical/Infrared (EO/IR) sensor.
