# Global Precipitation Measurement

> NASA and JAXA spacecraft for measuring global rainfall

**Wikidata**: [Q3108963](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q3108963)  
**Wikipedia**: [English](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Global_Precipitation_Measurement)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/global-precipitation-measurement

## Summary
The Global Precipitation Measurement (GPM) is a joint NASA and JAXA Earth observation satellite designed to measure global rainfall and precipitation patterns. Launched in 2014, it provides critical data for weather forecasting, climate research, and disaster preparedness.

## Key Facts
- **Type**: Earth observation satellite
- **Operators**: NASA (United States) and JAXA (Japan)
- **Launch Date**: February 27, 2014, at 18:37 UTC
- **Launch Vehicle**: H-IIA-23 rocket
- **Launch Site**: Yoshinobu Launch Complex Launch Pad 1
- **Orbit**: Low Earth orbit
- **COSPAR ID**: 2014-009C
- **Aliases**: GPM, Global Precipitation Measurement Core Observatory
- **Website**: [gpm.nasa.gov/missions/GPM/core-observatory](https://gpm.nasa.gov/missions/GPM/core-observatory)

## FAQs
### Q: What is the purpose of the Global Precipitation Measurement satellite?
A: The GPM satellite measures global rainfall and precipitation patterns to improve weather forecasting, climate research, and disaster preparedness.

### Q: Who operates the GPM satellite?
A: The GPM satellite is a joint mission between NASA (United States) and JAXA (Japan).

### Q: When was the GPM satellite launched?
A: The GPM satellite was launched on February 27, 2014.

### Q: What type of orbit does the GPM satellite use?
A: The GPM satellite operates in a low Earth orbit.

### Q: What is the COSPAR ID of the GPM satellite?
A: The COSPAR ID of the GPM satellite is 2014-009C.

## Why It Matters
The Global Precipitation Measurement (GPM) satellite plays a crucial role in understanding Earth's water cycle and climate patterns. By providing high-resolution data on global rainfall, it supports weather forecasting, climate research, and disaster management. The GPM mission enhances our ability to monitor extreme weather events, track climate change impacts, and improve hydrological models. Its international collaboration between NASA and JAXA ensures comprehensive coverage and data sharing, making it a vital tool for scientists and policymakers worldwide.

## Notable For
- **First-of-its-kind collaboration**: Joint mission between NASA and JAXA, combining their expertise in Earth observation.
- **Advanced measurement technology**: Uses dual-frequency precipitation radar and a microwave imager to provide detailed rainfall data.
- **Global coverage**: Orbits the Earth at an inclination of 65 degrees, ensuring near-global coverage.
- **Real-time data dissemination**: Provides data within three hours of collection, supporting timely weather predictions.
- **Long-term climate monitoring**: Contributes to understanding long-term precipitation trends and climate change impacts.

## Body
### Mission Overview
The Global Precipitation Measurement (GPM) Core Observatory is a satellite mission developed by NASA and JAXA to measure global precipitation. Launched on February 27, 2014, it orbits Earth at an altitude of approximately 407 kilometers (253 miles) and has an inclination of 65 degrees, providing near-global coverage.

### Instruments
The GPM satellite is equipped with two primary instruments:
- **Dual-frequency Precipitation Radar (DPR)**: Measures the size, distribution, and intensity of raindrops and snowflakes.
- **Microwave Imager (GMI)**: Provides a broader view of precipitation across a 900-kilometer (560-mile) swath.

### Data Applications
The GPM mission supports various applications, including:
- **Weather forecasting**: Improves accuracy by integrating precipitation data into models.
- **Climate research**: Tracks long-term precipitation trends and their impact on climate change.
- **Disaster management**: Enhances early warning systems for floods and other water-related disasters.

### International Collaboration
The GPM mission involves collaboration with international partners, including the European Organization for the Exploitation of Meteorological Satellites (EUMETSAT) and the Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO). This collaboration ensures comprehensive global coverage and data sharing.

### Significance
The GPM satellite has revolutionized our understanding of Earth's water cycle by providing high-resolution precipitation data. Its real-time dissemination and advanced measurement capabilities make it an essential tool for scientists, meteorologists, and policymakers worldwide. The mission's long-term data collection contributes to climate research and disaster preparedness, highlighting its critical role in environmental science.

## References

1. Jonathan's Space Report
2. [OpenAlex](https://docs.openalex.org/download-snapshot/snapshot-data-format)