Prepare for an exhilarating journey beyond the confines of our planet as we unveil the innovative PRESET CubeSat mission! PRESET, short for 'Pitch REsolving Spectroscopy for Electron Transport,' is embarking on a mission to unravel the enigmatic secrets of the Van Allen Belts. We invite you to join us on this captivating voyage of discovery.
Exploring the Van Allen Belts
The Van Allen Belts are two intriguing regions encircling Earth, filled with charged particles. These regions comprise an inner belt, dominated by protons, and an outer belt, bustling with electrons. Earth's magnetic field sculpts these belts, shaping their dynamic presence in space.
Venturing into the Van Allen Belts can be perilous for spacecraft and astronauts, as they contain energetic particles that pose risks to both technology and human beings. Scientists study the mysteries of these belts to gain a comprehensive understanding and effectively manage the challenges they present to space exploration.
Why PRESET Matters
The significance of the PRESET mission lies in its potential to directly impact our understanding of Earth and its surroundings. We're especially intrigued by how electrons within the Van Allen Belts influence the protective atmosphere surrounding our planet. In particular, we’d like to understand how ozone absorbing molecules such as nitrogen and oxygen gas are formed as a result of electrons in the Van Allen Belts.
These molecules play a pivotal role in atmospheric dynamics, and an excessive presence in the upper atmosphere can lead to the thinning of the protective ozone layer. The consequences of a depleted ozone layer are far-reaching, affecting climate patterns and the health of all living organisms. However, our understanding of this intricate interplay is hindered by a lack of comprehensive data.
Here, the PRESET mission steps in as a beacon of knowledge. PRESET is committed to providing comprehensive insights into the behavior of electrons and their effects on our atmosphere, enabling us to make informed decisions that safeguard the delicate balance of our planet and ensure its safety for all living beings.
Instruments at Work
PRESET is equipped with two cutting-edge instruments: the Electron Spectrometer Telescope (EST) and our 3-axis Magnetometer (MAG). The EST measures the energy and angle of electrons incident upon the satellite, while the MAG keeps a watchful eye on the local magnetic field. Together, these instruments create a comprehensive picture of electron spectrums, crucial for our understanding of their influence on Earth.
The Countdown Begins
We've set our sights on launching the PRESET mission in the third quarter of 2025, strategically timed to coincide with a solar maximum. During this period, solar activity and electron flux are at their peak, making it the perfect opportunity to capture the electrifying show at its apex. Be sure to stay tuned for thrilling updates on the PRESET mission as we prepare to embark on this remarkable journey.