Kyoto Team Maps Satellite Drag with Starlink Data, Verifying ESA's Swarm
GS3Economy · S&T · Environment · Security· Space technology (ISRO, missions)· Prelims·
Why in news
Researchers at Kyoto University used Starlink satellite data to map thermospheric density, providing a method to verify ESA's Swarm data and improve satellite collision risk models.
Background
Researchers used orbital data from approximately 1,200 Starlink satellites to estimate thermospheric density at an altitude of 482 km. The study utilized tomography to map geographic variations in atmospheric drag and was published in the journal 'Earth, Planets and Space'.
Facts for Prelims
- S&TStarlink: A satellite constellation operated by SpaceX for global internet access.
- S&TESA Swarm: A constellation of small satellites used to study Earth's magnetic field and ionosphere.
- FactThe study focused on thermospheric density at an altitude of 482 kilometres.
- S&TTomography: A method used in this study to map 2D geographic variations in atmospheric density.
For Mains
Q. Discuss the challenges of space debris management and the importance of accurate atmospheric modeling in ensuring orbital safety for satellite constellations.
Dimensions to cover in your answer
- orbital debris risks
- technological verification
- international space cooperation
- sustainable space exploration
Keywords: orbital mechanics · thermospheric density · satellite constellation · space situational awareness · tomography
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