SpaceBuoy

SpaceBuoy is a Nanosatellite measuring 18 inches tall and 18 inches in diameter. The mission is aimed at improving data sources for ionospheric forecasting models. As with any forecasting model there needs to be historical data as well as a steady stream of current or "real-time" data. With ionospheric forecasting models, there is currently a lack of "real-time" data sources. SpaceBuoy will provide the local ion density and the columnar Total Electron Content (TEC), both of which are essential to current forecasting models.

Data will be taken from two instruments.  The in-situ ion density measurements will be taken by two a Planar Langmuir Probes, co-developed with the Air Force Research Labs (AFRL).  TEC measurements will be taken by a CITRIS Receiver, developed by the Naval Research Labs (NRL).

The ground-side portion of the mission is also integral to the success of the mission. Along with making the the measurements in orbit, the data must be transmitted to the ground and made available for users of forecasting models. Data will be processed and made available online in an easy-to-use format.