# Cyclone Global Navigation Satellite System

> Earth observation satellite constellation

**Wikidata**: [Q5198802](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q5198802)  
**Wikipedia**: [English](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cyclone_Global_Navigation_Satellite_System)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/cyclone-global-navigation-satellite-system

## Summary
The Cyclone Global Navigation Satellite System (CYGNSS) is an Earth observation satellite constellation operated by the University of Michigan and Southwest Research Institute. Designed specifically for weather monitoring and climate observation, it is part of NASA's Earth Venture program.

## Key Facts
- CYGNSS is a spacecraft constellation classified as a weather satellite
- It has a mass of 28.9 kilograms with dimensions of 163.5 cm (width) × 22.9 cm (height) × 52.1 cm (length)
- The system is operated by the University of Michigan and Southwest Research Institute, a nonprofit research organization established in 1947
- It is sponsored by the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) as part of the Earth Venture program
- CYGNSS has a nominal power output of 34.7 watts
- The satellite constellation has 9 Wikipedia sitelinks across multiple languages including English, German, Spanish, French, and Russian
- CYGNSS is also known by its alias "CYGNSS"

## FAQs
### Q: What is the primary purpose of the Cyclone Global Navigation Satellite System?
A: CYGNSS is designed to monitor weather and climate patterns as an Earth observation satellite constellation. It is specifically focused on providing data related to weather and climate phenomena.

### Q: Who operates and manages the Cyclone Global Navigation Satellite System?
A: The system is operated by the University of Michigan and Southwest Research Institute, a nonprofit research organization based in San Antonio, Texas, which was established in 1947 and employs approximately 3,000 people as of 2019.

### Q: What are the physical specifications of the CYGNSS satellites?
A: Each CYGNSS satellite has a mass of 28.9 kilograms with dimensions of 163.5 cm in width, 22.9 cm in height, and 52.1 cm in length. The system operates with a nominal power output of 34.7 watts.

## Why It Matters
The Cyclone Global Navigation Satellite System represents an important contribution to Earth observation and weather monitoring capabilities. By providing detailed data about weather patterns and climate phenomena, it enhances our understanding of atmospheric and oceanic processes. As part of NASA's Earth Venture program, it demonstrates the value of university-led research initiatives in advancing scientific knowledge about our planet's climate systems. The detailed specifications and operational capabilities of CYGNSS contribute to the broader field of weather satellite technology and climate research.

## Notable For
- Being classified as a weather satellite constellation with specific capabilities for Earth observation
- Its operation by a university-led consortium (University of Michigan and Southwest Research Institute) rather than a traditional aerospace contractor
- Its compact physical design with a relatively lightweight structure (28.9 kg) compared to many other satellite systems
- Being part of NASA's Earth Venture program, which supports innovative, cost-effective Earth science investigations
- Its multi-language Wikipedia presence indicating international scientific interest

## Body
### Overview
The Cyclone Global Navigation Satellite System (CYGNSS) is an Earth observation satellite constellation that functions as a weather satellite. It is operated by the University of Michigan and Southwest Research Institute, with sponsorship from the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) as part of the Earth Venture program.

### Technical Specifications
- Mass: 28.9 kilograms
- Dimensions: 163.5 cm (width) × 22.9 cm (height) × 52.1 cm (length)
- Nominal power output: 34.7 watts
- 3D model available: https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/Special:FilePath/CYGNSS_solo_39.stl
- Visual representation: https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/Special:FilePath/CYGNSS_spacecraft_model.png

### Operational Details
- Operator: University of Michigan, Southwest Research Institute
- Manufacturer: University of Michigan, Southwest Research Institute
- Southwest Research Institute was established in 1947
- Headquarters: San Antonio, Texas
- Employees: Approximately 3,000 as of 2019
- Industry focus: Research
- Country: United States
- Part of: Earth Venture program
- Freebase ID: /m/0k3h9h2

### Media and Documentation
- Wikipedia title: Cyclone Global Navigation Satellite System
- Wikipedia languages: commons, de, en, es, fa, fr, gl, it, ru
- Commons category: CYGNSS
- Sitelink count: 9
- Aliases: CYGNSS

## References

1. [Source](http://clasp-research.engin.umich.edu/missions/cygnss/docs/cygnsspresskit-rev-121616.pdf)
2. [Source](http://clasp-research.engin.umich.edu/missions/cygnss/docs/CYGNSS_FactSheet_171020.pdf)