Satellite Based Sensors for Unambiguous Retrieval of Ionospheric Data in Conjunction with Ground Based Receivers

We propose a small low powered satellite based instrument package consisting of EUV monitoring system, a modern swept frequency type sounder and a two frequency beacon. This package will provide primary standard measurements of electron density distributions in the topside ionosphere, where most of the ionization resides. Intercomparison of different satellite instruments and ground based measurements will help DMSP operations and enhance the space-weather activities. Intercomparison and validation of the ionospheric profiles derived with different techniques and from model predictions are essential for both operational enhancement and development of new techniques. These will help validation of different techniques, development of ionospheric tomography, understanding global morphology and other ionospheric processes. During Phase I, we address the issues associated with the development of such a system and perform an initial system design.