Initial design of a Radio Instrument Package for Lunar Ionosphere Measurements (RIPLIO)

The lunar ionosphere is a layer of electrically charged plasma surrounding the Moon whose structure and dynamics remain widely unknown due to lack of consistent observational capacity. To address this need, this research aims to design the Radio Instrument Package for Lunar Ionospheric Observation (RIPLIO). RIPLIO would consist of a multi-satellite constellation in lunar orbit for the purpose of measuring the lunar ionosphere with radio signals.

The University of New Brunswick (UNB) and the University of Graz possess complementary research expertise. UNB offers expertise in ionospheric physics and is equipped with the required electronics lab materials for testing and assembling instruments, while the University of Graz specializes in radio occultation (RO) missions for Earth observations. This collaboration could unlock the potential for the development of the RIPLIO instrument and the implementation of novel RO data processing techniques adapted to the lunar environment.
In addition to producing innovation in a largely unexplored research field, this project will strengthen collaboration between UNB and the University of Graz, expanding existing partnerships to the graduate and research levels and fostering joint studies, knowledge exchange, and future international research initiatives.

Faculty Supervisor:

Richard Langley

Student:

Partner:

Kunstuniversitåt Graz

Discipline:

Engineering

Sector:

Education

University:

University of New Brunswick

Program: