The project MAGIC focuses on the handling and processing of the new GRACE-FO data to allow for a continuation and improvement of the time-variable gravity field record. GRACE-FO (Gravity Recovery and Climate Experiment Follow-On) is the successor to the GRACE satellite mission, and will be launched in the first quarter of 2017. In addition to pre-processed data products (Level-1B) raw observations (Level-1A) will be publicly available for the first time. This enables a more detailed analysis of the instrument data, which is not only essential for improving gravity field solutions, but also for preparing next generation gravity field missions. To continue and improve the current GRACE derived gravity field time series, it is necessary to meet the challenges of the new data, to incorporate new observation types into the gravity field recovery, and to enhance data processing methodologies. In summary, a processing chain tailored to the data and requirements of GRACE-FO is envisaged, providing a continuous and highly-accurate data record for climate change research.

This project is funded within the Austrian Space Applications Program (ASAP) Phase XIII by the Austrian Research Promotion Agency (FFG).