description CATS (on ISS) Overview
The Cloud-Aerosol Transport System (CATS) was a light detection and ranging (lidar) remote-sensing instrument developed by NASA. It was deployed on the International Space Station in January 2015 to provide vertical profile measurements of clouds and aerosols in Earth's atmosphere. Operating from the Japanese Experiment Module, CATS utilized three wavelengths to study particulate matter and improve atmospheric models. The instrument successfully collected data to support climate research until it ceased operations in late 2017.
help CATS (on ISS) FAQ
What does CATS stand for on the ISS?
CATS stands for Cloud-Aerosol Transport System. It was a NASA lidar instrument designed to measure the vertical distribution of clouds and aerosols.
When was CATS deployed to the International Space Station?
CATS was deployed to the ISS in January 2015. From the station, it observed Earth's atmosphere from orbit rather than operating as a free-flying satellite.
What did the CATS instrument measure?
CATS measured vertical profiles of clouds and aerosols in Earth's atmosphere. It used lidar, a remote-sensing method that sends laser light and analyzes the returned signal.
Why was CATS placed on the International Space Station?
The ISS provided an orbital platform from which CATS could repeatedly observe atmospheric layers over different parts of Earth. Its measurements helped researchers study clouds, dust, smoke, and other airborne particles.
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