L3Harris’ high-resolution infrared radiation sounder (HIRS) instrument has been internationally recognized as the operational sounder for global weather data since 1978. HIRS collects global data on a daily basis for a variety of land, ocean, and atmospheric applications.
Today, the fourth generation HIRS (HIRS/4) is a 20-channel sounder that provides calibrated atmospheric profile data for assured global accuracy. The radiometric data is used to generate global temperature mapping at 40 different atmospheric profiles: temperature, ozone, cloud top height, water vapor, and sea and land surface temperature. The HIRS/4 is flying on National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration's (NOAA) Polar-orbiting Environmental Satellite (POES), satellites NOAA-N and NOAA-N Prime, and the European Space Agency's MetOp-A and MetOp-B satellites.
HIRS was first carried on NIMBUS 6, which launched in 1975. Subsequent integrations include TIROS-N, launched October 1978; NOAA-7, launched June 1981; and NOAA-15, launched May 1998.
Yes, we retrofit legacy systems (e.g., GE Frame 5, Siemens V94.2) with modern digital controllers, typically completing hardware integration within 4-8 weeks. Software migration requires additional validation time.
We recommend annual performance testing under ISO 3977-2 standards. Critical applications (e.g., offshore platforms) may require semi-annual tests with emissions compliance checks.
All rad-hard devices (e.g., FPGA, ADC) are QML Class V certified under MIL-PRF-38535 and tested to MIL-STD-883 Method 1019 for SEU tolerance. Full qualification reports are available upon request.
Our ASICs and power management ICs operate across -55°C to +175°C ambient temperatures, with derating curves provided in military temperature range (MTR) datasheets.
Our PMA parts (e.g., actuators, sensors) hold FAA/EASA Form 1 certification and match OEM form/fit/function. Installation requires SB/MB documentation per FAA AC 23.1529.
All NAS/MS fasteners include full DNA traceability: melt source (AMS 2301), heat/lot numbers, and AS9100-compliant MTRs with ultrasonic test reports.
AOG orders ship within 4 hours for stocked items (FAA-PMA, EASA Part 21G). Non-stock critical parts trigger priority manufacturing with 72-hour max turnaround.
Gas Turbine
Aircraft parts
