The Arctic Floating University-2023 (AFU) has launched a study on the effects of space weather on small satellites in the polar low Earth orbit. For this, the postgraduate student from the Northern Arctic Federal University, Alexander Gordeychik, installed a special antenna on the upper deck of the research vessel 'Professor Molchanov' to receive telemetry data.
'The polar regions for small spacecraft are a particular risk area due to the influence of space weather, therefore studying how this area affects the operation of spacecraft will optimize their operation, extend their service lifespan and minimize the influence [of space weather]', explained Alexander Gordeychik.
Space weather is the total radiation from the Sun and generally from space. These radiations affect all satellites, but their effect on large devices is well studied, while for small ones (weighing 10-20 kg) the matter has not been studied yet. However, the number of such spacecraft is increasing.
'The condition of satellites in polar latitudes is generally quite difficult to investigate. The AFU is an excellent opportunity to get into high latitudes for several weeks to conduct such research. The number of receiving stations on frequencies that transmit telemetry is very limited. You could say there are almost none', the interlocutor of the agency added.
Based on the research results, recommendations will be developed to protect satellites.