Tags: Norway, Space Weather, Automatic Identification System, Norwegian Space Center,
Publication: NorwayPost.no
Publication Date: 01/08/2013

The Norwegian satellite AISSat-1 launched in July 2010. Image credit: Norwegian Space Center

The Norwegian Space Center has started accepting bids to build the platform for NORSAT-1, the new Norwegian satellite, which will study space weather, solar radiation, and monitor shipping traffic.

The satellite will carry an Automatic Identification System (AIS) receiver to be able to detect ships. The device will be a more advanced version than that on board AISSat-1, the country’s satellite launched in 2010. This new AIS receiver will require a larger satellite platform; it will allow the satellite to detect and track maritime traffic both in Norwegian waters, and international waters.

NORSAT-1 will also measure Total Solar Irradiation (TSI) and electron plasma from the sun, using two instruments being developed by Norwegian and international research teams.

 Full story