SNoOPI Spacecraft

Demonstrate the measurement of the complex reflection coefficient over various land surface conditions.

The SigNals of Opportunity P-band Investigation, or SNoOPI, is a technology demonstration CubeSat designed to improve the detection of moisture levels on a global scale of underground root-zone and within snowpacks.

Root zone soil moisture and snow water equivalent play critical roles in the hydrologic cycle, impacting agricultural food production, water management, and weather phenomena. When scientists understand the amount of water in the soil, crop growth can be accurately forecasted, and irrigation can become more efficient.

The 6U CubeSat is collaboratively developed by NASA, Purdue University in Indiana, Mississippi State University, and the United States Department of Agriculture.  

Scientific investigation mission to demonstrate the measurement of the complex reflection coefficient over various land surface conditions for use in future CubeSat constellations. The technology will measure snow and soil moisture, which are vital data for applications like food security and water resources management. SNoOPI will be the first on-orbit demonstration of the P-band signals of opportunity technique and will advance the prototype instrument to Technology Readiness Level 7.

Initial design was 1x6U but now photos show 2x3U. ELaNa website showed it as part of CRS-27 but not listed in the news.

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