Resonant Microstrip Patch Antenna as Ice-Thickness Gauge

Researchers at Johnson Space Center (JSC) recently demonstrated that the resonant microstrip patch antenna (RMPA), which has been proven in commercial applications, can be applied with equal success to measuring prelaunch ice buildup on the insulated low-temperature external tanks of the space shuttle orbiter. To do this, they explored the following questions: Why is prelaunch ice buildup on the shuttle external tanks measured, how is the ice measured now, how does the RMPA sensor work, and will the performance of this sensor satisfy the Space Shuttle Program launch-commit criteria.