Dynamics of the Global Ionosphere Thermosphere System DyGITS

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Dynamics of the Global Ionosphere -Thermosphere
System (DyGITS)

• Science Objectives
• Characterize dynamics of global I-T system
• Understand how system is driven by lower
  atmosphere and magnetosphere
• Quantify total I-T energy budget
• Model substorms, reconnection, and cusp processes
• Characterize electron and neutral density
  profiles
• Predict ionospheric irregularities
• Measure Poynting and particle energy fluxes
• Associated Research Focus Areas
• Open Frontiers to Space Environment Prediction
• Understand the Nature of Our Home in Space
• Safeguard the Journey of Exploration

DyGITS Mission Description Polar orbits at
600 - 900 km Fixed LT at 1200 and 2100 MLT
Two 3-axis stabilized spacecraft In situ
Remote Sensing Instruments Mini-UV
spectrograph / imager Thermal plasma suite
Magnetometer Energetic Particle detectors
DORIS receiver GPS receiver

• Enabling / Enhancing Tech Development
• Mini-satellites launched on ESPA ring with DMSP
  F20
• Smaller, lighter, low power sensors
• Testbed for plug and play technologies