Coriolis Satellite

Coriolis is an Air Force Space Test Program (SMC/SD) and Space and Naval Warfare Systems Command (SPAWAR) meteorological science mission launched on January 6, 2003 to demonstrate the viability of using polarimetry to measure ocean surface wind speed and direction from space, and to demonstrate predictions of geomagnetic disturbances through continuous observation of Coronal Mass Ejections (CMEs).

Two Government furnished payload instruments are utilized: Windsat and the Solar Mass Ejection Imager (SMEI).

General Dynamics designed and manufactured the spacecraft; integrated the payloads; supported launch vehicle integration, launch and on-orbit checkout; and developed backup ground station elements.