Technology of Munin

The size of the Munin satellite is 213 x 213 x 218 (height) mm. The separation system is similar to the ones used on the Astrid- 1 and Astrid-2 microsatellites; a spring-tensioned system which releases the satellite when a launcher controlled pyro is activated. The satellite uses a passive magnetic stabilization system, a permanent magnet holds the satellite aligned along the geomagnetic field lines (like a compass needle). Munin Satellite The satellite has no moving parts, deployable booms, etc.

The satellite is covered with solar cells on all surfaces.The spectrometer apertures are in the gap between the satellite body and the "roof".

The satellite is powered by the solar cells, which provide enough power when the satllite is in sunlight to also recharge a battery that will keep the satellite powered when it is in eclipse.

The satellite is in an elliptical polar orbit (perigee 698 km, apogee 1800 km) with a period of 110 minutes. In the orbit it collects information about the distributions of electrons and ions and stores this in the onboard (2 MByte) RAM.
This data is downlinked with use of a radio modem when the satellite passes Kiruna, Sweden (68ƒ N. 20ƒ E), and will be made available on the WWW immediately after reception.

Data of this kind has proved very useful for predicting the extent of the auroral oval, and thus effects of geomagnetic storms (such as power distribution disruptions). Our satellite will contribute to global space weather forecasts.


IRF - RYP - SwRI - Luth