#United States #Golden, Colorado #Air Force #Weather Data #PlanetiQ

PlanetiQ Expands Weather Data Capabilities

In a significant development for weather data technology, PlanetiQ has announced that it has been awarded a $15 million, four-year contract by the U.S. Air Force. This Strategic Funding Increase (STRATFI) contract aims to expedite the advancement of next-generation weather data collection through innovative space technologies. The program, which commenced on March 31, 2026, is set to enhance the Air Force's capabilities in gathering and analyzing critical atmospheric data.

Background of the Program

The main focus of this initiative is the enhancement of sophisticated Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) capabilities, specifically through GNSS Radio Occultation (RO), GNSS Polarimetric Radio Occultation (PRO), and GNSS Reflectometry (R) instruments. These advancements are expected to lead to improved weather predictions and a better understanding of atmospheric phenomena, which are vital for military operations and planning.

Ira Scharf, CEO of PlanetiQ, remarked, "This award represents a major step forward in delivering more advanced, actionable weather information to the warfighter." The contract’s objective is to facilitate the development and launch of spacecraft designed to capture high-value weather data, empowering the Department of the Air Force with refined forecasting tools.

Objectives and Capabilities

Under this contract, PlanetiQ will work on advancing several key technologies, including:
1. GNSS-RO: Utilizing radio occultation to obtain atmospheric data, particularly benefiting severe weather forecasting capabilities.
2. GNSS-PRO: Employing polarimetric techniques to improve measurement accuracy for various weather phenomena, including precipitation analysis.
3. GNSS-R: Adding reflectometry capabilities to measure surface conditions, including ocean wind speeds and soil moisture levels.

The project will also foster the development of advanced data assimilation techniques aimed at integrating GNSS-PRO data into Numerical Weather Prediction (NWP) models. This integration is crucial in enhancing forecast accuracy and providing actionable insights that can inform critical decision-making processes across military operations.

Supporting Multiple Applications

Once the spacecraft is commissioned, PlanetiQ plans to deliver real-time data from space during the contract duration. This on-orbit data service will cater to various applications within the Air Force, enabling easier training of artificial intelligence (AI) models, further assisting in data assimilation processes, and evaluating performance metrics for these advanced technologies.

PlanetiQ is recognized as the largest commercial provider of GNSS-RO data. The company currently operates a global satellite constellation equipped with cutting-edge receivers. These advanced instruments are capable of capturing high signal-to-noise ratio measurements, enhancing the overall reliability and accuracy of weather data.

Future of Atmospheric Monitoring

With the expansion of capabilities to encompass GNSS-R, PlanetiQ aims to revolutionize weather data analytics by providing a more holistic understanding of atmospheric conditions and Earth’s surface dynamics. Scharf emphasized the importance of combining these three measurements into a single platform, explaining, "We are unlocking a more complete picture of the atmosphere and Earth’s surface."

This initiative underscores PlanetiQ's commitment to advancing weather data technology and contributing to the operational readiness of the U.S. Air Force. Their efforts not only support military applications but also enhance public safety and preparedness against severe weather events, ultimately safeguarding lives and property through improved forecasting abilities.

About PlanetiQ

Founded in 2015, PlanetiQ is dedicated to the development and operation of a commercial satellite constellation focused on providing high-quality GNSS radio occultation data. With a track record that includes securing NOAA's largest-ever contract for satellite weather data valued at $24.3 million in 2025, PlanetiQ continues to innovate in the realm of atmospheric monitoring to ensure accuracy and reliability in weather forecasting.

Through strategic partnerships and advancements in technology, PlanetiQ is well-positioned to lead the way in securing the future of atmospheric data collection and analysis for various sectors, including defense and governmental operations.