Monitoring the Earth’s magnetic field and ionosphere with LEO nanosatellites: the NanoMagSat project

The geomagnetic field has been continuously monitored from LEO orbits since 2000, complementing ground-based observatory data by providing accurately calibrated scalar and vector measurements with global planetary coverage. The successful three-satellite ESA Swarm constellation is planned to remain in operation up to hopefully 2024. Further monitoring the field from space with absolute magnetometry beyond that date is of critical importance for improving our understanding of the dynamics of the various components of this field. Here, we will report on our ongoing efforts to design and launch “NanoMagSat” nanosatellites, carrying an advanced miniaturized absolute scalar and self-calibrated vector ASM magnetometer (based on a concept successfully tested on Swarm), allowing 400 Hz scalar and calibrated 1 Hz vector data to simultaneously be acquired. Attitude restitution would be achieved thanks to a set of star trackers. A Zero Field Magnetometer (ZFM, with many sub-systems similar to those of the ASM) allowing additional much lower noise vector data to be acquired at even higher rates (>400 Hz), is also under development/consideration. This core payload would be complemented by a dual frequency GNSS receiver and a Langmuir probe, to enhance the possibility to address space weather related issues. A first (possibly multiple satellites) launch is currently considered at a ~60° inclination LEO orbit complementing the orbits of the Swarm constellation, which could be followed (possibly simultaneously) by launches on additional orbits to quickly form the basis of a future constellation of nanosatellites for permanent monitoring of the geomagnetic field and ionospheric environment from space.