Operational readiness for the atmospheric infrared sounder (AIRS) on the Earth Observing System Aqua spacecraft

The Atmospheric Infrared Sounder project will measure global atmospheric water vapor and temperature with unprecedented resolution and accuracy. AIRS is an infrared instrument covering 3.7-15.4 microns in 2378 IR channels. This paper describes the AIRS mission and science objectives, the instrument design and operation, the calibration plan, the in-flight operational scenario and the Science Processing System. All aspects of the program are addressed here to demonstrate that the AIRS program is ready to transition to the flight segment of the program. The AIRS instrument meets the majority of instrument design requirements established in order to meet the scientific objectives. A well-defined operational approach has been established, and a sound calibration plan has been developed to ensure optimal performance throughout the life of the mission.