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Abstract

The main objective of the joint ESA/NASA Mass-change And Geoscience International Constellation (MAGIC) is to extend the mass transport time series from previous gravity missions (GRACE, GRACE-FO) with significantly enhanced accuracy, spatial and temporal resolutions. The concept is based on a joint ESA/NASA Mission Requirements Document (MRD). The first (polar) pair (P1) of the constellation will be implemented via a Germany-USA fast-paced cooperation to ensure continuity of observations of GRACE-FO, with potential ESA in-kind contributions. The second (inclined) pair (P2) will be implemented via a Europe-USA cooperation with some potential NASA in-kind contributions. Within extensive full-fledged numerical simulations with realistic error assumptions regarding instrument performances and background model errors, the expected performance of the resulting gravity field products is evaluated. In this contribution, the main focus lies on the quantification of the added value of P2 and the relative contributions of P1 and P2 to the combined constellation solution. In particular, the achievable performance for 1- and 5-day solutions is assessed. Further, we analyze the stand-alone value of P2 the covered regions. Note that when using spherical harmonics as base functions, this requires also an adequate treatment of the polar gap areas. Finally, we match all results against the MRD requirements and evaluate the impact on various fields of science and service applications (continental hydrology, cryosphere, oceans, solid Earth, geodesy).