Research
Space@VT focuses on research investigations of the science, technological impact, and utilization of the geo-space environment. The goal of Space@VT is to develop a holistic approach to such research utilizing theoretical and advanced computational modeling as well as the development of scientific instruments and space missions for experimental data acquisition and analysis.
- Research Facilites
- Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) & Radio Science Laboratory
- Space Systems Simulation Laboratory
- Aeronomy/Remote Sensing Laboratory
- SuperDARN HF Space Weather Radar Laboratory
- Space Plasma Chamber
- Lower-Atmospheric Remote Sensing Laboratory
Research Interests:
- Upper Atmospheric and Space Plasma Physics
- Space Weather
- Spacecraft Dynamics and Control
- Spacecraft Advanced Propulsion Techniques
- Spacecraft Environmental Interactions
Research Capabilities:
- Satellite Mission Design and Remote Sensing
- Space-based Instrument Development
- ProjectReport_201305_Kim (PDF | 17MB)
The main objective of this project is to develop our understanding of the multi-scale global solar wind-magnetosphere-ionosphere coupling dynamics and thus to predict the properties of the complex solar-terrestrial environment (space weather) through high temporal and spatial resolution, magnetically conjugate multi-instrument arrays developed in Eastern Antarctica.
Magnetosphere-Ionosphere Science Team (MIST) at Virginia Tech developed an autonomous adaptive low-power instrument platform (AAL-PIP) to establish a ground instrument network, magnetically conjugate to the Greenland East coast magnetometer chain along the 40° magnetic meridian (PI: Bob Clauer). The new Antarctic array facilitates high-latitude interhemispheric investigations of the magnetosphere and ionosphere.
As of the austral summer 2012-2013, three AAL-PIPs are in operation in the remote field locations in Antarctica. Because Antarctica has a harsh environment and its accessibility is limited, the stations are designed to operate autonomously and to optimize data collection and power management for at least three years. Figure 1 and Table 1 show the locations of the AAL-PIP stations and their conjugate network in Greenland.
- Spacecraft Modeling, Simulation, and Design
- Physics-based Modeling, Simulation, and High Performance Computing
- Global Navigation Satellite System Receiver Design