GPS Autonomous Micro-Monitor (GAMMA)

ABSTRACT:Ionospheric scintillation and TEC are required by the IORD. We propose a GPS Autonomous Micro-Monitor (GAMMA) that makes measurements of Ionospheric scintillation and TEC. GAMMA will be remotely deployable, such as on an ocean buoy or in a battlefield. It will send data to the user via the Iridium satellite network in near real-time. GAMMA will make use of ASTRAs existing Connected Autonomous Space Environment Sensor (CASES) GPS software receiver design, with significant reductions in size, weight and power, and the addition of solar panels and battery for extended autonomous remote operation. Deliverables include a prototype GAMMA for remote operation on land, and a buoy-ready system. Software and documentation will also be provided.We anticipate a broad customer base, including Department of Defense agencies as well as researchers in the field of space weather, both commercial and educational.BENEFIT:The IORD requirements specify TEC and scintillation..GPS data are generally not available from remote or ocean locations. GAMMA will provide remote autonomous operation, and will provide a high accuracylow cost solution for global monitoring.