Machine learning algorithms for transplanting accelerometer observations in future satellite gravimetry missions

Abstract

Abstract Accurate and continuous monitoring of Earth’s gravity field is essential for tracking mass redistribution processes linked to climate variability, hydrological cycles, and geodynamic phenomena. While the GRACE and GRACE Follow-On (GRACE-FO) missions have set the benchmark for satellite gravimetry using low–low satellite-to-satellite tracking (LL-SST), the precision of gravity field recovery still strongly depends on the quality of accelerometer (ACC) performance. Traditional electrostatic accelerometers (EA) face limitations that can hinder mission outcomes, prompting exploration of advanced sensor technologies and data recovery techniques. This study presents a systematic evaluation of accelerometer data transplantation (i.e., the reconstruction and transfer of non-gravitational acceleration measurements between satellites) using novel accelerometer configurations, including Cold Atom Interferometry (CAI) accelerometers and hybrid EA-CAI setups, and applying both analytical and machine learning-based methods. Using comprehensive closed-loop LL-SST simulations, we compare four scenarios ranging from the conventional EA-only setup to ideal dual hybrid configurations, with a particular focus on the performance of transplant-based approaches using different neural network approaches. Our results show that the dual hybrid configuration provides the most accurate gravity field retrieval. However, the transplant-based hybrid setup, particularly when supported by machine learning (ML), emerges as a robust and cost-effective alternative, achieving comparable performance while significantly reducing the need for high-precision accelerometers across the constellation, thereby lowering mission costs and system complexity. These findings highlight the promise of combining quantum sensor technology and data-driven transplantation for future satellite gravimetry missions, paving the way for improved global monitoring of Earth’s dynamic gravity field.