RTX’s Geostationary Hyperspectral Imager Passes Critical Design Review

RTX, formerly known as Raytheon Technologies, said its space sensor has moved to the development and testing phase following the completion of NASA’s critical design review. The Geostationary Littoral Imaging and Monitoring Radiometer is being built to operate in geostationary orbit where it would serve as NASA’s hyperspectral imager, RTX said.

GLIMR will gather data, including high-sensitivity, high-spatial and high-temporal resolution measurements of coastal and ocean ecosystems, to provide decision-makers with a clearer picture of the physical and biological conditions of aquatic environments.

David Broadbent, president of space systems at RTX business Raytheon, said GLIMR will help track coral bleaching, chlorophyll and plankton health, oil spills and red tide. With data from the space sensor, authorities can respond quickly to natural and manmade coastal water disasters and improve the ecosystem’s sustainability and resource management. 

The sensor will monitor oceans in the Gulf of Mexico, parts of the southeastern U.S. coastline and the Amazon River plume.