Scientists from NASA's Goddard Space Flight Center have revealed that on 25th January of 2018 the mission codenamed GOLD is due to begin. The main aim of the mission is studying thermosphere and ionosphere to better understand the effect solar rays cause on these atmosphere layers. Later this year ICON spaceship will be launched for more detailed study of dependencies between changes in ionosphere and communication devices.
GOLD mission satellite
For realization of GOLD mission scientists will attach the small device to the commercial communication satellite SES-14. It is impossible to launch dedicated satellite for mission's purposes because of the budget of just 50 000 000 USD. SES-14 orbit is at the height of 35 400 km.
Scheme showing different atmosphere layers
Later this year scientists will launch a small satellite ICON into ionosphere — that is, at the height of approximately 560 km. ICON will make small measurements in this atmosphere layer. By combining data gathered using both projects, NASA employees will get precise information about objects of the research.