PlanetiQ’s New NOAA Contract Moves Weather Forecasting Forward
PlanetiQ, a leading developer of atmospheric observation systems, has secured a Delivery Order worth more than $6.5 million. The award, made by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), marks a meaningful step in expanding the data used for day-to-day weather prediction. Operations under this effort begin on September 18, 2024, setting a clear timeline for when the new data pipeline starts helping forecasters.
Why Radio Occultation Data Matters
Under NOAA’s Radio Occultation Data Buy II (RODB-2) Indefinite Delivery/Indefinite Quantity (IDIQ) contract, PlanetiQ will provide roughly 2,200 GNSS-RO profiles every day. That steady stream of measurements supports NOAA as well as the U.S. Air Force, the U.S. Navy, and leading international weather prediction centers. These profiles feed advanced numerical weather prediction models—the core engines behind modern forecasts—to sharpen accuracy across short-, medium-, and longer-range outlooks.
Innovative Weather Technology
CEO Ira Scharf underscored the company’s role and responsibility: “In addition to our deep understanding of RO technology, PlanetiQ provides highly valuable data to the government, military, and commercial sectors to benefit people and businesses around the world.” It’s a concise way to say what the work is about: better data for public agencies and private users who rely on accurate forecasts to plan, protect, and operate.
GNOMES-5 Takes Flight: A Milestone in Weather Observation
On August 16, 2024, PlanetiQ successfully launched the GNOMES-5 satellite. Within just one day of reaching orbit, GNOMES-5 was already transmitting some of the highest quality radio occultation data available worldwide. At the heart of the spacecraft is PlanetiQ’s Pyxis sensor, a next-generation instrument designed to deliver outstanding GNSS-RO data with consistency and precision.
GNOMES-5 carries advanced features that help tackle complex weather challenges. Among them is a high-gain GNSS dual linear polarization antenna—technology designed to support measurements of ground conditions such as precipitation and flood levels. Those observations, paired with the rest of the RO data stream, strengthen atmospheric research and day-to-day forecasting for sectors that feel weather first, including airlines, agriculture, energy, and insurance.
Expanding Global Weather Data Access
A standout advantage of the Pyxis sensor is its ability to receive signals from all four global GNSS constellations: GPS, GLONASS, Galileo, and Beidou. With access to those signals, the satellite can deliver more than twice the data of many competitive GNSS-RO sensors currently in orbit. More profiles, more often—that’s how prediction systems gain detail and improve the accuracy people count on.
About PlanetiQ’s Mission
PlanetiQ focuses on delivering high-quality atmospheric data while aiming for broader environmental and social benefits. A privately owned company founded in 2015, it plans to build and operate a full constellation of 20 Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellites. The aim is straightforward: fill the critical need for precise weather and climate forecasts—forecasts that can help save lives and support a safer environment.
For more details about PlanetiQ’s mission and operations, you can visit the company’s official website to find resources and updates on its projects and innovations in satellite technology. The thread running through it all is simple: better data, better forecasts.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the purpose of NOAA’s contract with PlanetiQ?
The contract ensures NOAA receives a large, steady flow of radio occultation data to strengthen its numerical weather prediction models and improve forecast accuracy.
How does PlanetiQ’s satellite technology contribute to forecasting?
PlanetiQ delivers about 2,200 GNSS-RO profiles each day and uses advanced instruments—such as the Pyxis sensor on GNOMES-5—to supply high-quality atmospheric measurements that feed modern forecasting systems.
Why is the GNOMES-5 satellite significant?
Launched on August 16, 2024, GNOMES-5 began transmitting some of the highest quality radio occultation data within a day. It features the Pyxis sensor and a high-gain GNSS dual linear polarization antenna, boosting the volume and utility of its measurements.
Who uses PlanetiQ’s data?
NOAA, the U.S. Air Force, the U.S. Navy, and international prediction centers rely on the data. Industries directly affected by weather—such as airlines, agriculture, energy, and insurance—benefit from more accurate forecasts.
How many satellites does PlanetiQ plan to operate?
PlanetiQ intends to build and operate a 20-satellite constellation in Low Earth Orbit to expand global coverage and deliver precise weather and climate observations.
