RESEARCH: SPACE AND ATMOSPHERIC SCIENCES

Part of our research at Florida Space Institute encompasses Space and Atmospheric Science (SAS), which combines frontier research, education, and instrumentation, aiming to better understand the Earth’s atmosphere and the near-space environment as an interconnected system.

UNDERSTANDING THE EARTH’S ATMOSPHERE AND ITS TRANSITION TO SPACE

The Space and Atmospheric Sciences (SAS) research focuses on understanding the key energy sources that connect the Earth’s atmosphere to near space, as well as their interactions with terrestrial and space weather. These interactions modify atmospheric circulation, affect the ionosphere and its irregularities, and influence the interaction of charged particles within the magnetosphere-ionosphere system.

The research findings in Space and Atmospheric Sciences (SAS) have significant implications for modern society. These findings improve communication and navigation systems and play a crucial role in safeguarding our technology and infrastructure against the threats posed by geomagnetic storms and ionospheric disturbances. Moreover, they also enhance our understanding of climate science, providing essential insights for addressing environmental challenges and supporting models and forecasting.

Additionally, SAS research is crucial to the future of space exploration. As we seek to unlock the mysteries of the universe, understanding the thermospheric density and dynamics in the region where Earth’s atmosphere meets space is critical. This knowledge is vital for optimizing the operations of Very Low Earth Orbit (VLEO) and Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellites, as well as advancing commercial space flight initiatives.