Sara Hatch
Papers
1
Total Citations
6
H-Index
1
About
Sara Hatch is a pioneering aerospace engineer whose work centers on the precise design and maintenance of satellite orbits for Earth observation, particularly for synthetic aperture radar (SAR) interferometry. Her most impactful contribution is her foundational research on the NISAR mission, a landmark joint effort between NASA and ISRO. In her highly cited 2014 paper, "Shootin' the Pipe around the World," Hatch tackled the formidable challenge of maintaining a tight orbital "tube" for L-band SAR interferometry, enabling the mission to detect millimeter-scale changes in Earth's surface—from shifting ice sheets to subtle ground deformations. This work, which has garnered 6 citations, is critical for ensuring the repeat-pass accuracy needed for global topographic monitoring. Hatch’s expertise in orbit design not only supports NISAR’s ambitious goals but also advances the broader field of space-based geodetic measurements. Her achievements highlight a rare ability to translate complex orbital mechanics into practical solutions for environmental science, making her a key figure in the future of Earth observation.
Research Focus
Key Achievements
Top Papers
- 1