Evaluating Code-Based Optical Phase Readout for Replicating GRACE Satellite Gravity Signals

Grade:

12

Teacher:

Roselyn Paragamac

This project investigates whether a code-based optical phase-readout system can replicate gravity-field variation signals derived from NASA’s GRACE satellite data. GRACE satellites monitor changes in Earth’s gravity caused by mass movement such as groundwater loss and glacial melt. Using Python, I simulated how a compact optical sensor might respond to GRACE-derived displacement inputs. The simulation produced phase-readout outputs that were compared to the original GRACE signals using time-series analysis and correlation metrics. Results showed strong alignment between the simulated and benchmark signals, supporting the feasibility of small-scale optical sensing platforms for future gravimetry research.

Project presentation

Research paper