This paper discusses the utilization of multiple Cubesats in various formations for studies in the auroral acceleration region. The focus is on the quasi-static properties, spatio-temporal features, electric potential structures, field-aligned currents, and their relationships, all of which are fundamentally important for an understanding of the magnetosphere-ionosphere coupling. It is argued that a multitude of nanosatellites can address some of the relevant outstanding questions in a broader range of spatial, temporal, and geometrical features, with higher redundancy and data consistency, potentially resulting in a shorter mission period and a higher chance of mission success. A number of mission concepts consisting of a cluster of 6 to 12 Cubesats with their specific onboard payloads are suggested for such missions over a period of as short as two months.
Multi-spacecraft studies of the auroral acceleration region: From cluster to nanosatellites
2016
Article (Journal)
English
Multi-spacecraft studies of the auroral acceleration region: From cluster to nanosatellites
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|MULTI-CUBESAT MISSION FOR AURORAL ACCELERATION REGION STUDIES
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|SAMSON - Geolocation with Nanosatellites Cluster Flight
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