CubeSat Radio Interferometry Experiment:
NASA is set to launch a groundbreaking CubeSat Radio Interferometry Experiment (CURIE) mission to unravel the mysteries of solar radio waves.
- CubeSat Radio Interferometry Experiment (CURIE) aims to investigate the enigmatic origins of radio waves emanating from the Sun, a phenomenon first observed decades ago.
- The mission employs an innovative technique called low-frequency radio interferometry, marking its first use in space.
- CURIE consists of two miniature spacecraft, collectively no larger than a shoebox, which will orbit Earth approximately two miles apart.
- This separation enables the instruments to detect minute differences in radio wave arrival times, pinpointing their exact solar origin.
- This spacecraft will measure radio waves in the 0.1 to 19 megahertz range, frequencies blocked by Earth’s upper atmosphere, necessitating space-based observations.
- CURIE will orbit 360 miles above Earth’s surface to obtain an unobstructed view of the Sun’s radio emissions.
- Once in orbit, the two CURIE spacecraft will separate, deploy their eight-foot antennas, and begin collecting data.
- This mission not only promises to advance our understanding of solar phenomena but also paves the way for future space-based radio astronomy endeavors
