NASA has launched twin satellites, TRACERS (Tandem Reconnection and Cusp Electrodynamics Reconnaissance Satellites), to study how solar wind affects Earth’s magnetic field. The identical satellites will operate in the magnetosphere, where they will help researchers understand and predict how energy from the sun impacts the Earth and its space-based assets.
The TRACERS satellites are equipped with instruments that will measure rapid changes in the coupling between the solar wind and the Earth’s magnetic field. This information is critical for understanding and mitigating effects of space weather on electrical grids, GPS signals, and other critical systems.
Other small satellites launched on Wednesday include a polylingual terminal to test communication protocols, an experimental cubesat to study 5G communications technology in space, and one built by an Australian company to test air-traffic management technology for aircraft tracking and communications anywhere in the world.
The mission was delayed due to a regional power outage that interrupted air traffic communications over the Pacific Ocean near Vandenberg Space Force Base. The launch occurred smoothly once the countdown began, with the upper stage engine shutting down after boosting the vehicle into its planned preliminary orbit.
TRACERS is an acronym for Tandem Reconnection and Cusp Electrodynamics Reconnaissance Satellites, and it will fly in tandem with other satellites to help researchers measure rapid changes in space weather. The twin spacecraft are built by Boeing and will study how the solar wind interacts with Earth’s magnetic field, creating constantly changing “space weather” that can affect satellites, electrical grids, and other critical systems.
By studying space weather, NASA aims to keep its way of life safe on Earth. The TRACERS satellites will provide valuable insights into the effects of solar wind on the Earth’s magnetic field and help researchers understand how to mitigate these effects in the future.
Source: https://www.cbsnews.com/news/nasa-tracers-satellites-solar-wind-space-weather