AATSR3

AATSR3 refers to the Advanced Along-Track Scanning Radiometer 3, a proposed but ultimately unfunded instrument concept intended for the European Space Agency's (ESA) Earth observation satellite missions. It was envisioned as the successor to the successful Along-Track Scanning Radiometer (ATSR) series, including ATSR-1, ATSR-2, and the Advanced Along-Track Scanning Radiometer (AATSR) flown on the ENVISAT mission. The primary objective of the AATSR series was to provide highly accurate and consistent measurements of sea surface temperature (SST) and other parameters relevant to climate monitoring.

AATSR3 was designed to build upon the legacy of its predecessors by incorporating advancements in sensor technology and data processing. Key improvements were planned in areas such as spatial resolution, radiometric accuracy, and spectral coverage. The instrument was intended to continue providing vital data for understanding global climate change, oceanographic processes, and atmospheric studies. However, despite its scientific merit and the demand for continuous, high-quality climate data, AATSR3 did not progress to the implementation phase due to programmatic and budgetary decisions within ESA. The scientific community continued to advocate for such advanced radiometer capabilities, and the legacy of the ATSR series has influenced subsequent instrument designs.