Inverse problems in space science and technology

Abstract

Solutions for inverse problems appearing in space applications and space technology are described. The inverse problem is formulated as a nonlinear optimization problem. Usually some additional information must be added from our previous knowledge about the physical phenomenon. In general this a priori information means smoothness, in other words, regularized solutions are searched for. The methodology is applied to geophysics (magneto-telluric inversion), meteorology (temperature retrieval from satellite data), and oceanography (inverse hydrologic optics), as examples of space applications. The scheme is also employed for solving an inverse problem emerging from technology: the inverse design of a space radiator.