# Real-Time Contrail Monitoring and Mitigation Using CubeSat Constellations
## 3 Mitigation Strategies Through Real-Time Monitoring
### Detailed Role of CubeSats in Contrail Monitoring  
The role of CubeSats in contrail monitoring is multifaceted, encompassing data collection, real-time analysis, and the integration of these data into broader predictive models. Each CubeSat in a constellation can be equipped with a variety of sensors designed to measure different aspects of the atmosphere, providing a comprehensive picture of the conditions that lead to contrail formation.  
One of the primary sensors used on CubeSats for contrail monitoring is the infrared spectrometer. Infrared sensors are capable of detecting thermal emissions from the Earth's surface and atmosphere, allowing them to measure temperature profiles at various altitudes. This is particularly important for contrail monitoring, as the formation of contrails is highly sensitive to temperature variations in the upper troposphere. By measuring these temperatures in real time, CubeSats can provide critical data on whether the conditions are right for contrail formation. Such sensors have been integrated into CubeSats to directly observe similar climate variables [38; 39; 40; 41], and instruments can be developed to target frequencies of interest to individual missions. More specifically to this mission, through analysis of several spectral bands it is possible to identify contrails among naturally occurring water and ice clouds [37], while post-processing using high-resolution RGB imagery can enable geolocation of the spectrometer data [42].  
In addition to temperature, humidity is another crucial factor in contrail formation. CubeSats can be equipped with microwave radiometers, which measure the amount of water vapor present in the atmosphere. High levels of humidity, especially when the air is supersaturated with respect to ice, increase the likelihood that contrails will form and persist. By continuously monitoring atmospheric humidity, CubeSats can help predict when and where contrails are likely to form, allowing for proactive mitigation measures.  
Another important tool in the CubeSat arsenal is the hyperspectral imager. Hyperspectral imaging involves capturing data across a wide range of wavelengths, beyond the visible spectrum, which can be used to identify the specific types of particles present in the atmosphere. This capability is particularly useful for detecting the ice crystals that make up contrails, as well as distinguishing between natural cirrus clouds and contrail-induced clouds. By analyzing the spectral signatures of these particles, CubeSats can provide detailed information on the composition and extent of contrails, contributing to more accurate predictions of their environmental impact.  
Data from CubeSats are transmitted to ground stations, where they are processed and integrated into predictive models. These models use machine learning algorithms to analyze the data and identify patterns that precede contrail formation. For example, a deep neural network might be trained to recognize the combination of temperature, humidity, and particle data that typically leads to the formation of persistent contrails. By continuously updating these models with new data from the CubeSats, it is possible to improve their accuracy over time, providing more reliable predictions [43].  
These predictions can then be fed into flight management systems (FMSs), which can suggest adjustments to flight paths in real time. For instance, if the CubeSat data indicate that contrail formation is likely at the aircraft's current altitude, the FMS might recommend climbing or descending to an altitude where the air is drier or warmer, reducing the likelihood of contrail formation [44]. This capability represents a significant step forward in contrail mitigation, as it allows for dynamic, real-time adjustments based on the latest atmospheric data.