Scanning microwave spectrometer
From Glossary of Meteorology
Scanning Microwave Spectrometer
(Abbreviated SCAMS.) A five channel scanning radiometer on ''Nimbus''-6 (launched June 1975) used to measure temperatures over ocean surfaces, water vapor, and liquid water.
SCAMS was a precursor to the MSU used operationally on the TIROS-N (NOAA series) satellites since 1978.