Earth Observation Technical Performance Trajectories for Technology Roadmapping and Investments.

About the Webinar

Technological capabilities in Earth observation (EO) systems are rapidly changing. Understanding these trends allows for developing baselines for future technology performance projections that can guide mission planning and technology investments decisions. Using an extensive database of over 5000 records of earth observation spacecraft since 1960s, this work empirically models quantitative trends in earth observation technologies and shows temporal change in performance metrics such as resolution, data rate, mass, and design life of EO instruments including passive optical and Lidar systems. The empirically derived technological trajectories are projected for mid (2030) and long-term (2040) scenarios and implications for technology portfolio investments, using Markowitz theory, and mission planning with technology roadmapping methods are discussed.

About the speaker

Afreen Siddiqi is a Research Scientist in the Department of Aeronautics and Astronautics at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) and an adjunct lecturer of Public Policy at Harvard Kennedy School. She has an S.B. in Mechanical Engineering, an S.M. in Aeronautics and Astronautics, and a PhD in Aerospace Systems, all from MIT. Her expertise is in systems analysis, using methods of optimization, simulation, and quantitative modeling, for informing technical design as well as policy for technical systems. Some of her work has focused on earth observation systems, space communication systems, autonomous vehicles, and energy and water infrastructure. She has co-authored a book and over 100 technical publications and engages regularly with policy makers on issues of development, environment, and technology.