September 7, 2011 Updated

Logo for GPM dual-frequency precipitation radar selected

JAXA has decided on the logo mark for the dual-frequency precipitation radar (DPR) aboard the main satellite of the Global Precipitation Measurement (GPM) project.
As an international program, the GPM project has been led by Japan and the U.S. to observe global precipitation (such as rain and snow). JAXA is developing the DPR with the National Institute of Information and Communications Technology (NICT.)
The DPR, a high-performance precipitation measurement device, will be aboard the GPM main satellite to be launched by the H-IIA launch vehicle. Once it arrives in space, the radar is expected to contribute to compiling a high-precision global precipitation map.
The DPR, which has been tested at the Tsukuba Space Center, will be transported to a NASA facility to be combined with the part developed by NASA.

• GPM/DPR Logo

June 30, 2011 Updated

Integration test of the dual-frequency precipitation radar with KuPR and KaPR

The dual-frequency precipitation radar (DPR) for the Global Precipitation Measurement (GPM) project has been under development. The DPR will be loaded onto the main satellite of the GPM project, which aims to broaden observation coverage to a higher latitude compared to the Tropical Rainfall Measuring Mission. The DPR is equipped with two different frequency radars of Ku-band and Ka-band (KuPR and KaPR,) and it can observe light rain, pouring rain and snow simultaneously.
KuPR-KaPR co-operation test on May 25th, using a protoflight model, confirmed combined operations of the two radars which consist of the DPR at the electromagnetic shield room for the electromagnetic compatibility test in the Satellite Test Building Radiometer Ion Test Laboratory at the Tsukuba Space Center.

August 3, 2009 Updated

Memorandum of Understanding with NASA for cooperation in GPM Project

JAXA and NASA signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) on development and operation activities for the Global Precipitation Measurement (GPM) project to measure precipitation (such as rain and snow) using a multiple number of satellites on July 31, 2009 (Japan Standard Time). With this MOU, the two organizations will further deepen the cooperative relationship and exercise comprehensive leadership utilizing the research and development ability and personnel of the two parties.

• Press Release

March 18, 2009 Updated

Vibration test of the DPR thermal/structural models

Development of the Dual-frequency Precipitation Radar (DPR), which will be installed in the Global Precipitation Measurement (GPM) satellite, has been underway. The DPR is composed of two radars with two different frequencies (KuPR and KaPR) to precisely measure light rain, heavy rain and snow at the same time. We are carrying out environment tests using the DPR thermal and structural models at the Tsukuba Space Center. The photo shows the vibration test on the Ku-band radar model.

October 17, 2008 Updated

Testing the KuPR Radar Engineering Model

Development of the Dual-frequency Precipitation Radar (DPR) that will be installed in the Global Precipitation Measurement (GPM) satellite has been underway. The DPR is composed of two antennas with two different frequencies (KuPR and KaPR) to precisely measure light rain, heavy rain and snow at the same time. We are carrying out the antenna pattern measurement and radar operation verification for the Ku band radar by using its engineering model at the Radio Test Building at the TKSC.

April 30, 2002 Updated

The Global Precipitation Measurement (GPM) concept was based on TRMM`s achievements, and this concept is currently being studied. The GPM satellites consist of a TRMM-type primary satellite that carries a radar and a microwave radiometer and a fleet of constellation satellites that carry microwave radiometers. The primary satellite plans to go to higher latitudes than TRMM to extend the coverage. The constellation satellites will measure precipitation frequently and globally. GPM is currently planned to start operating in 2007-2008 timeframe. The primary satellite is planned to carry a Dual-frequency Precipitation Radar (DPR) and a microwave radiometer. The combination of these two instruments will improve the accuracy of rainfall measurement and also realize snowfall observation, especially at higher latitudes. The 2nd GPM International Planning Workshop will be held from 20th (Mon.) through 22nd (Wed.) May 2002 at the Shinagawa Prince Hotel in Tokyo. The National Space Development Agency of Japan (NASDA), the Communications Research Laboratory (CRL) and the U.S. National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) will co-host this workshop. Please see more details here.