Prestvannvegen, Tromsø, Norway

Tromsø Satellite Station

Date Built:

1967

Type

Communication

Purpose

The concept behind Tromsø Satellite Station was to build a real-time telemetry station that would enable simultaneous observations of the ionosphere from both satellites and sounding rockets. This innovative approach allows for comprehensive and coordinated monitoring of the ionospheric conditions, which is crucial for understanding space weather phenomena and their impacts on satellite communications, navigation systems, and other technologies reliant on ionospheric stability. By providing real-time data, the Tromsø Satellite Station ensures that scientists and researchers can observe and respond to dynamic changes in the ionosphere with unprecedented accuracy and timeliness. Furthermore, Tromsø Satellite Station serves as a critical infrastructure for advancing scientific knowledge and technological development. The facility supports a range of research initiatives, including studies on auroral activities, geomagnetic storms, and other ionospheric disturbances. Its strategic location in the high-latitude region makes it ideally suited for observing polar ionospheric events, which are often more intense and complex than those at lower latitudes. By facilitating real-time telemetry and comprehensive observations, Tromsø Satellite Station not only enhances our understanding of the ionosphere but also contributes to the development of more resilient and reliable space-based technologies.

Site Owners

Space Norway AS (50%), and Kongsberg Defence & Aerospace AS (50%)

Site Operators

Kongsberg Satellite Services (KSAT)

Other Facilities

Ground Station Network, High-Latitude Advantage, Antenna Infrastructure, Data Processing and Distribution, Support for a Wide Range of Missions, Resiliency and Redundancy, Collaborations and Partnerships, Polar Orbit Capabilities

Affiliated Organizations

Norwegian Space Centre (NSC), Svalbard Satellite Station (SvalSat), Troll Satellite Station (TrollSat)

References