What is GRASP Earth?
GRASP Earth is a cutting-edge company focused on algorithms, computer tools, ground instruments, and satellite payloads developed by top researchers in Environmental Sciences and Remote Sensing. The core idea? To conceptualize, develop, and implement advanced techniques in atmospheric science—especially air pollution monitoring—that can be widely used by scientists, industries, and policymakers alike. Right now, their main push is deploying the MAP constellation, designed to capture polarimeter data from space. Beyond just creating products from Earth Observation R&D, GRASP Earth’s real magic lies in merging MAP data, ground measurements, and public datasets through their proprietary GRASP algorithm. The result is a powerful, synergistic product that significantly boosts data quality for air pollution monitoring.
Main Benefits of GRASP Earth
Here’s a quick snapshot of what makes GRASP Earth stand out:
- First commercial multi-angular polarimeter (MAP) constellation launched into space.
- Five observations per day over every location worldwide—unmatched global coverage.
- Advanced GRASP algorithm capable of working even over bright surfaces like deserts where other methods fail.
- Integration of real-time satellite data with ground and public model data for comprehensive air quality insights.
- Payload development led by NASA experts, leveraging HARP cubesat technology.
- Support from major institutions like EUMETSAT, CNES, and ESA.
The Story Behind GRASP Earth
Born from the collaboration between CNRS and the Université de Lille, GRASP Earth was created to democratize access to high-quality air quality data. The company builds on decades of research in Environmental Sciences, Earth Remote Sensing, and Ground Instrument Engineering. It’s not just about technology—it’s about keeping a vibrant scientific community alive, pushing new coding approaches, and shaping their own satellite constellation. Their mission? To support the green technology transition and help tackle climate change, air quality, and surface monitoring challenges by providing accurate characterization of Earth’s atmosphere and surface.
The Mission Driving GRASP Earth
Thanks to the payload development work done at NASA by CTO Dr. Vanderlei Martins and his Maryland-based team, GRASP GAPMAP’s mission is truly groundbreaking. Using NASA’s HARP cubesat technology, they’ve launched the first commercial MAP constellation into space. MAP observations are currently the most capable passive remote sensing method for monitoring aerosols and particulate pollution. This constellation marks a new chapter in space history, offering five daily observations over every location globally—a coverage level no other planned public MAP mission can match.
The Core Technology: The GRASP Algorithm
The heart of GRASP Earth lies in the GRASP code, developed since the 1990s within NASA’s AERONET network project. This algorithm is incredibly versatile, working under various conditions—including bright surfaces like deserts, where traditional aerosol algorithms struggle due to overwhelming reflectance. GRASP can take inputs from a wide range of satellite and surface measurements. The company’s plan? To create a synergistic approach by combining real-time MAP data from space with ground and public model data, delivering highly informative insights on aerosol retrieval, cloud interactions, and climate change.
Impact on Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
- SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being – by improving air quality monitoring and reducing pollution-related health risks.
- SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities – supporting better urban air quality management.
- SDG 13: Climate Action – enhancing understanding of aerosols and their role in climate change.
- SDG 15: Life on Land – monitoring natural particle emissions and environmental changes.
- SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals – collaborating with international space and environmental agencies.
Looking Ahead: The Future of GRASP Earth
GRASP Earth is not just about today’s technology—it’s about shaping the future of atmospheric monitoring. By democratizing access to advanced monitoring tools worldwide, they’re enabling industries and regions to align on air quality ESG standards. Their synergistic scientific model adds value not only in PM 1, PM 2.5, and PM 10 aerosol retrieval but also in a wide range of particle monitoring applications related to natural phenomena, radiative forcing, and cloud properties. With their space and ground approach, GRASP Earth is paving the way for better monitoring, deeper understanding, and more effective action on particle emissions—ultimately fostering a healthier, more prosperous environment for all.
