GPM Performs Maneuvers, Continues Calibration

The GPM spacecraft continues to perform normally. The GPM Microwave Imager and Dual-frequency Precipitation radar continue operations and calibration.

The spacecraft performed two routine maneuvers. The first was a 180-degree yaw (left/right in the horizontal plane) turn. This is the second yaw turn that changes the orientation of the spacecraft; it is now flying forwards again. Yaw turns are performed approximately every 40 days for thermal control, as the angle between the spacecraft's orbit and the sun changes. This keeps the side of the spacecraft designed to remain cold from overheating.

The second routine maneuver performed was a delta-v burn to increase the velocity of the spacecraft and maintain altitude. An extremely thin layer of atmosphere still exists at GPM's altitude of 250 miles above Earth's surface. As the spacecraft flies through the thin gases, drag occurs, slowing – and lowering – the spacecraft. Delta-v burns occur weekly to maintain altitude.