GPM Core Observatory (Global Precipitation Measurement) NASA Space Mission, Launch Date & Status

NASAs job isnt just about making scientific discoveries. It also includes developing new technologies, figuring out how to communicate across vast distances in space, and keeping an eye on our own planet. The money NASA puts into things like space robots, systems that can think for themselves, and long-distance space communication has led to important tools for everyday people and for national defense, showing just how valuable NASA is.

With GPM Core Observatory (Global Precipitation Measurement), NASA seeks to deepen our knowledge of Earth (non-Sun-synchronous orbit for precipitation), exploring its capabilities, environment, and contributions to space exploration.

• On February 27, 2014, NASA launched GPM Core Observatory (Global Precipitation Measurement), initiating a mission aimed at advancing our knowledge of space.  
• Engineers and scientists have collaborated extensively to meet the missions key objective, which is to Measure global precipitation for scientific research and societal applications, requiring innovative technological solutions.  
• The decision to go ahead with this Earth observation satellite (precipitation measurement) was made only after thorough safety checks and many practice runs.  
• The powerful H-IIA 202 stood poised on the launchpad, a testament to human ambition and engineering. 
• The launch took place at Tanegashima Space Center, Japan, marking the start of the mission. 
• It remained active for Ongoing (3-year prime mission, extended). 
• NASA, JAXA (Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency) was responsible for launching and monitoring the mission. 
• It wrapped up with a status of Operational. 
• NASA invested NASA contribution ~$933 million; JAXA contribution significant in GPM Core Observatory (Global Precipitation Measurement), targeting new discoveries through advanced robotics and space instrumentation. 

The payload of Dual-frequency Precipitation Radar (DPR), GPM Microwave Imager (GMI) aboard GPM Core Observatory (Global Precipitation Measurement) enhances both mission autonomy and scientific output.

Powered by Advanced radar and microwave radiometry for precipitation profiling, GPM Core Observatory (Global Precipitation Measurement) aimed to reduce human intervention in complex space operations. In this article, we have break down the critical milestones, international impact, and strategic lessons of NASAs GPM Core Observatory (Global Precipitation Measurement) Space Mission, making it an useful resource for UPSC Aspirants in Mains GS Papers 2 and GS Paper 3, as well as for ethics and essay preparation.

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NASA GPM Core Observatory (Global Precipitation Measurement) Space Mission Overview 

GPM Core Observatory (Global Precipitation Measurement) – Space Mission Profile for UPSC
Target Celestial Body	Earth (non-Sun-synchronous orbit for precipitation)
Launch Date	February 27, 2014
Objective	Measure global precipitation for scientific research and societal applications
Mission Type	Earth observation satellite (precipitation measurement)
Launch Vehicle	H-IIA 202
Launch Site	Tanegashima Space Center, Japan
Mission Duration	Ongoing (3-year prime mission, extended)
Agencies Involved	NASA, JAXA (Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency)
Mission Status	Operational
Estimated Cost	NASA contribution ~$933 million; JAXA contribution significant
Proposal Date	Early 2000s
New Instruments/Payloads	Dual-frequency Precipitation Radar (DPR), GPM Microwave Imager (GMI)
Key Technologies Used	Advanced radar and microwave radiometry for precipitation profiling

Also, Checkout Sunita Williams’ Missions to the International Space Station

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GPM Core Observatory (Global Precipitation Measurement) Space Mission Global Contributions

NASAs collaboration with JAXA (co-lead, DPR instrument, launch) on GPM Core Observatory (Global Precipitation Measurement) advanced both technical development and diplomatic ties in space research.

• NASA’s GPM Core Observatory (Global Precipitation Measurement) benefited from DPR instrument and launch provided by JAXA, which supported advanced data collection and autonomous experimentation. 
• Key contributors such as Ball Aerospace (GMI), Goddard SFC (mission management) provided essential technologies and services that helped accelerate the mission timeline. 
• The use of Data used for weather forecasting, hydrology, climate studies encouraged collaborative validation of autonomous technologies and mission outcomes. 
• Through GPM Core Observatory (Global Precipitation Measurement), NASA underscored its leadership by achieving International standard for precipitation measurements from space, encouraging updates to international space guidelines. 

Global Collaboration & Strategic Impact
International Partners	JAXA (co-lead, DPR instrument, launch)
Payload Contributions	DPR instrument and launch provided by JAXA
Commercial Involvement	Ball Aerospace (GMI), Goddard SFC (mission management)
Data Sharing Agreements	Data used for weather forecasting, hydrology, climate studies
Impact on Global Space Policy	International standard for precipitation measurements from space

Checkout: Daily UPSC Current Affairs for your upcoming exam and get thorough with detailed Insights, Trends and Latest Developments for UPSC CSE Exam

Challenges & Risk in GPM Core Observatory (Global Precipitation Measurement) Space Mission

Despite facing technical difficulties like Inter-calibrating measurements from a constellation of partner satellites, the mission team implemented timely corrective actions that ensured GPM Core Observatory (Global Precipitation Measurement) stayed aligned with its core scientific and operational goals.

• Despite hurdles such as Coordinating international satellite constellation, GPM Core Observatory (Global Precipitation Measurement) proceeded as planned with only minor adjustments. 
• Environmental considerations were factored into GPM Core Observatory (Global Precipitation Measurement), resulting in Operational in Earth orbit as its end-of-life footprint. 

Operational Risks, Environmental Impact & Challenges
Risk & Mitigation Log	Coordinating international satellite constellation
Environmental & Sustainability Footprint	Operational in Earth orbit
Challenges Faced	Inter-calibrating measurements from a constellation of partner satellites

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Mission Timeline of GPM Core Observatory (Global Precipitation Measurement) NASA Space Mission

• The proposal for this mission was recorded on Early 2000s. 
• Completion of the landing/flyby on Not applicable enabled scientists to begin analyzing new data and images collected during the encounter. 
• On February 2017 (End of 3-year prime mission), mission control confirmed that all key milestones were achieved, closing the primary phase of the mission. 

Mission Timeline & Key Milestones
Proposal Date	Early 2000s
Critical Design Review (CDR) Date	N/A
Assembly Complete Date	N/A
Launch Date	February 27, 2014
Landing / Flyby Date	Not applicable
End of Primary Mission Date	February 2017 (End of 3-year prime mission)

Get to Know the detailed UPSC Syllabus for IAS Prelims & Mains Exam!

UPSC Relevance of GPM Core Observatory (Global Precipitation Measurement)

• The Prelims syllabus integrates recent breakthroughs from NASA missions, emphasizing their impact on global scientific progress.
• General Studies Paper 3 includes NASA space missions under science and technology, especially focusing on innovations in space exploration and their global impact.
• The UPSC CSE Ethics Paper (GS Paper 4) might include prompts on international cooperation in space missions, using NASA-led partnerships to discuss shared ethical standards across cultures and governments.
• From the use of satellite imagery in remote sensing (Geography) to space-based diplomacy (PSIR) and organizational leadership in mission planning (Public Administration), NASA missions support diverse analytical frameworks across optional papers.

Also, Learn about International Space Station (ISS)

Past UPCS Mains PYQs on NASA Space Missions

Q1. Launched on 25th December 2021, the James Webb Space Telescope has been much in the news since then. What are its unique features which make it superior to its predecessor space telescopes? What are the key goals of this mission? What potential benefits does it hold for the human race? (2022, GS Paper 3) 

Q2. How does the Juno Mission of NASA help to understand the origin and evolution of the Earth? (2017, GS Paper 1)

Q3. The safe landing of the ‘Curiosity’ Rover under NASA’s space programme has sparked many possibilities. What are those and how could humankind benefit from them? (2012, GS Paper 2)

Past UPCS Prelims PYQs on NASA Space Missions

Q1 [2022]: Which one of the following statements best reflects the idea behind the “Fractional Orbital Bombardment System” often talked about in the media?

(a) A hypersonic missile is launched into space to counter the asteroid approaching the Earth and explode it in space.

(b) A spacecraft lands on another planet after making several orbital motions.

(c) A missile is put into a stable orbit around the Earth and deorbits over a target on the Earth.

(d) A spacecraft moves along a comet with the same speed and places a probe on its surface.

Answer: (c) A missile is put into a stable orbit around the Earth and deorbits over a target on the Earth.

Explanation: While this question pertains to a military concept, NASAs research into orbital mechanics and space trajectories contributes to the broader understanding of such technologies.

Q2 [2020]: “The experiment will employ a trio of spacecraft flying in formation in the shape of an equilateral triangle that has sides one million kilometres long, with lasers shining between the craft.” The experiment in question refers to:

(a) Voyager-2

(b) New Horizons

(c) Lisa Pathfinder

(d) Evolved LISA

Answer: (d) Evolved LISA

Explanation: Evolved LISA (Laser Interferometer Space Antenna) is a space-based gravitational wave observatory developed by ESA with contributions from NASA.

Q3 [2017]: What is the purpose of ‘evolved Laser Interferometer Space Antenna (eLISA)’ project?

(a) To detect neutrinos

(b) To detect gravitational waves

(c) To detect the effectiveness of missile defence system

(d) To study the effect of solar flares on our communication systems

Answer: (b) To detect gravitational waves

Explanation: Evolved Laser Space Interferometer Space Antenna (ELISA) project was widely in the news due to the discovery of gravitational waves by the LIGO detector and the subsequent success of the LISA pathfinder project. The European Space Agency is leading the ELISA mission. The project is initiated to detect and accurately measure gravitational waves.

Q4 [2016]: What is ‘Greased Lightning-10 (GL-10)’, recently in the news?

(a) Electric plane tested by NASA

(b) Solar-powered two-seater aircraft designed by Japan

(c) Space observatory launched by China

(d) Reusable rocket designed by ISRO

Answer: (a) Electric plane tested by NASA
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Explanation: GL-10 is a remotely piloted plane similar to an Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV). It is designed and developed in such a way that it can take off like a helicopter and fly like an airplane. It is a battery-powered 10-engine with a wingspan of 3.05 meters. Eight electric motors are mounted on the wings. 2 electric motors are mounted on the tail. It weighs a maximum of 28.1 kilograms at takeoff. Due to its versatile vertical takeoff and landing ability, it produces less noise. It can be used as a UAV for small package delivery or vertical takeoff and landing, as well as long-endurance surveillance for agriculture, mapping, and other applications. Its modified scaled-up version can be used as a persons air vehicle.

Q5 [2015]: The term ‘Goldilocks Zone’ is often seen in the news in the context of:

(a) The limits of habitable zone above the surface of the Earth

(b) Regions inside the Earth where shale gas is available

(c) Search for the Earth-like planets in outer space

(d) Search for meteorites containing precious metals

Answer: (c) Search for the Earth-like planets in outer space

Explanation: The Goldilocks Zone is the livable zone around a star where the temperature is not too hot and not too cold for liquid water to exist on a planet. It is a metaphor for the childrens story Goldilocks and the Three Bears, in which a young girl selects from sets of three objects, eschewing the extremes (such as those that are enormous or small, hot or cold) and fixing on the one that is just right in the middle. The Goldilocks zone of the Sun surrounds the Earth. All of Earths water would freeze if it were found where the dwarf planet Pluto is; however, all of Earths water would boil out if it were found where Mercury is.

Also, Get to Know What was NASA's Parker Solar Probe Mission

UPSC Practice Questions on NASA Space Missions

Q1. NISAR is a joint project of ISRO and ______.
1. CNSA
2. JAXA
3. NASA
4. DRDO
Answer: 3
Solution: NISAR is a joint project of ISRO and NASA. NISAR refers to NASA-ISRO Synthetic Aperture Radar. It refers to a technique for producing high-resolution images. Because of the precision, the radar can penetrate clouds and darkness, which means that it can collect data day and night in any weather. Function: It will scan the globe every 12 days over the course of its three-year mission of imaging the Earth’s land, ice sheets, and sea ice to give an unprecedented view of the planet. National Aeronautics and Space Administration NASA - space agency of the USA will provide one of the radars for the satellite, a high-rate communication subsystem for science data, GPS receivers, and a payload data subsystem. NISAR will be equipped with the largest reflector antenna ever launched by NASA. Indian Space and Research Organisation ISRO will provide the spacecraft bus, the second type of radar called the S-band radar, the launch vehicle, and associated launch services. It will be launched from Satish Dhawan Space Center in Sriharikota into near-polar orbit in 2024.

Q2. Which of the following is the name of the NASA programme to land first women and next man of the Moon by 2024?
1. Orion
2. Apollo
3. Artemis
4. Nike
Answer: 3
Solution: NASA has unveiled its next-generation space-suits for upcoming Artemis programme. Artemis is scheduled to launch by 2024. It will be NASA’s first woman mission on the Moon. This space-suit will be more flexible and easy to wear, NASA reported. NASA announced that it will allow astronauts to squat to pick up rocks and move more easily.

Q3. Consider the following statements with reference to Artemis I Mission:
1. Artemis I is the first of NASA’s deep space exploration systems.
2. It is an uncrewed space mission where the spacecraft will launch on Space Launch System rocket, the most powerful rocket in the world.
3. With the Artemis Mission, NASA aims to land humans on the moon by 2024.
Which of the statements given above are correct?
1. 1 and 2 only
2. 2 and 3 only
3. 1 and 3 only
4. 1, 2 and 3
Answer: 4
Solution: Artemis I is the first of NASA’s deep space exploration systems. Hence, statement 1 is correct. It is an uncrewed space mission where the spacecraft will launch on Space Launch System rocket, the most powerful rocket in the world and travel 280000 miles from the earth for over four to six weeks during the course of the mission. Hence, statement 2 is correct. With the Artemis Mission, NASA aims to land humans on the moon by 2024, and it also plans to land the first woman and first person of colour on the moon. Hence, statement 3 is correct.

Q4. Consider the following statements:
1. The NewSpace India Limited is the commercial arm of the Department of Space.
2. Indian National Space Promotion and Authorisation Center IN-SPACe will facilitate the participation of private sector.
Which of the above is/are correct?
1. 1 only
2. 2 only
3. Both 1 and 2
4. Neither 1 nor 2
Answer: 3
Solution: The new Indian National Space Promotion and Authorisation Center IN-SPACe, which is expected to be functional within six months, will assess the needs and demands of private players, including educational and research institutions, and explore ways to accommodate these requirements in consultation with ISRO. Existing ISRO infrastructure, both ground- and space-based, scientific and technical resources, and even data are planned to be made accessible to interested parties to enable them to carry out their space-related activities. Indian industry, however, is unable to compete, because till now its role has been mainly that of suppliers of components and sub-systems. Indian industries do not have the resources or the technology to undertake independent space projects of the kind that US companies such as SpaceX have been doing or provide space-based services.

Q5. With reference to Artemis I, consider the following statements:
1. It will provide a foundation for human deep space exploration.
2. It is the first uncrewed flight beyond the Moon and return to Earth.
3. NASA aims to contribute to scientific discovery and economic benefits through this mission.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
1. 1 only
2. 2 only
3. 1 and 2 only
4. 1, 2 and 3 only
Answer: 4
Solution: Artemis I will provide a foundation for human deep space exploration. It is the first uncrewed flight beyond the Moon and return to Earth. NASA aims to contribute to scientific discovery and economic benefits through this mission.

Q6. In December 2022 which of the following Arab countries launched lunar spacecraft?
1. UAE
2. Saudi Arab
3. Qatar
4. Kuwait
Answer: 1
Solution: UAE successfully launches first-ever Arab-Built lunar spacecraft. A SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket carried into space the first ever Arab-built lunar spacecraft, on 12 Dec 2022. It was launched from the Cape Canaveral Space Force Station in Florida. The Rashid Rover was built by Dubai’s Mohammed bin Rashid Space Centre MBRSC, in the United Arab Emirates UAE, and is being delivered by the HAKUTO-R lander, engineered by a Japanese lunar exploration company in space.

Q7. Curiosity rover, of which organisation, found new evidence of an ancient lake in the form of rocks etched with the ripples of waves in the foothills of a Martian mountain?
1. ESA
2. NASA
3. Roscosmos
4. JAXA
Answer: 2
Solution: US space agency NASA’s Curiosity rover found new evidence of an ancient lake in the form of rocks etched with the ripples of waves in the foothills of a Martian mountain. The rover has found some of the clearest evidence of ancient waters. The evidence was found at an area called the sulfate-bearing unit. The Curiosity rover has been exploring the Martian surface since 2012. The sulfate-bearing unit is a region previously identified by the Mars Reconnaissance Orbiter as containing salty mineral deposits just beneath a 5500-meter mountain called Mount Sharp. According to NASA, Curiosity has attempted to extract samples from some of the rocks, but they proved too hard for the rover’s drill.

Q8. Who among the following are among the 4 astronauts who will venture around the Moon on Artemis II as announced by NASA and the Canadian Space Agency on 4 April 2023?
1. Jeremy Hansen
2. Victor Glover
3. Christina Koch
4. Reid Wiseman
1. 1, 2 and 3
2. 1, 3 and 4
3. 2, 3 and 4
4. All 1, 2, 3 and 4
Answer: 4
Solution: The National Aeronautics and Space Administration NASA and the Canadian Space Agency CSA on 4 April 2023 announced the 4 astronauts who will venture around the Moon on Artemis II. The astronauts are Jeremy Hansen, Victor Glover, Christina Koch, and Reid Wiseman of NASA. The mission is scheduled to launch in November 2024 and will be the first crewed moon trip in fifty years. This will be the first crewed moon trip in fifty years. Reid Wiseman of NASA was first selected as an astronaut for the space organization in 2009. He will serve as commander of the Artemis II mission. Hansen was selected by the Canadian Space Agency for astronaut training in 2009. Notably, he will be the first Canadian ever to travel to deep space. Glover made his first trip into space in 2021, flying SpaceX’s Crew Dragon on its second crewed mission and spending nearly six months at the International Space Station. The fourth crew member is Koch. Six spacewalks have been completed by Koch including the first all-female spacewalk in 2019. With 328 days in space, she holds the record for the longest solo spaceflight by a woman.

Q9. In May 2023, a Falcon 9 rocket with a crew of dragon spacecraft launched from Florida. It is a mission of which of the following?
1. Blue Origin
2. ISRO
3. Space X
4. NASA
Answer: 3
Solution: Falcon 9 rocket with crew dragon spacecraft launched from Florida. The Falcon 9 carrier rocket, along with the Crew Dragon spacecraft and a commercial crew of four people, has successfully launched from NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, according to SpaceX. The mission, called Axiom Mission 2 Ax-2, was launched at 5:37 p.m. Eastern Time on Sunday. The first stage of the Falcon 9 rocket is expected to land at Cape Canaveral Space Force Station, which is located near the launch site. Axiom Space, based in Houston, is sending a commercial crew to the International Space Station ISS for the second time. The Ax-2 crew consists of retired NASA astronaut commander Peggy Whitson, US pilot John Shoffner, Saudi fighter pilot Ali Alqarni, and research technician Rayyanah Barnawi, who will be the first Saudi woman in space. The Ax-2 crew will join the regular crew at the ISS and participate in scientific work during their mission. Axiom Space's first crewed mission Ax-1 took place in April 2022.

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Also, Read about Axiom 4 Mission (Ax-4) for UPSC