Mission concept selected
NASA has moved the DAPHNE project into the next development stage, aiming to investigate the coupling between space‑weather phenomena, ionospheric dynamics, and the lower atmosphere.
Purpose and objectives
Fluctuations in space weather can disrupt GPS services, low‑Earth‑orbit satellites and pose risks to astronauts. DAPHNE will collect high‑resolution plasma and magnetic‑field data to improve forecasting of these impacts.
Technical approach
The mission will deploy a small satellite equipped with advanced sensors to measure plasma densities, electric fields and magnetic variations from a low‑Earth orbit, enabling direct observation of ionosphere‑thermosphere interactions.
Future timeline
Following the transition to Phase B, detailed system design, testing and integration will proceed, with a launch anticipated in the mid‑2020s.
Implications for space operations
Data from DAPHNE are expected to enhance the robustness of space‑based infrastructure and provide critical insight for upcoming crewed missions.