Research Article
From Earth to Orbit: The Evolution of Launchers and Their Impact on Satellite Deployment
Diriba Gonfa Tolasa*
Issue:
Volume 11, Issue 1, June 2025
Pages:
1-13
Received:
26 March 2025
Accepted:
10 April 2025
Published:
29 April 2025
DOI:
10.11648/j.ajae.20231001.12
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Abstract: The advancement of launch vehicles has been pivotal in shaping the landscape of space exploration and satellite deployment. This abstract examines the historical evolution of launchers, from early ballistic rockets to contemporary reusable systems, and their profound impact on the deployment and operational capabilities of satellites. The development of launch technology has paralleled the increasing complexity and functionality of satellites, enabling a diverse array of applications ranging from telecommunications and Earth observation to scientific research and interplanetary exploration. Initially, the field of rocketry was characterized by rudimentary designs and limited payload capacities, primarily driven by military objectives during the mid-20th century. The transition to space exploration catalyzed the development of more sophisticated launch systems, exemplified by the introduction of the Saturn V rocket, which facilitated human exploration of the Moon. This era marked a significant leap in engineering capabilities, setting the stage for subsequent advancements in launch technology. The advent of the Space Shuttle program in the 1980s introduced a paradigm shift in satellite deployment, allowing for the transportation of multiple payloads and the servicing of existing satellites in orbit. However, the high operational costs and complexity of the Shuttle system prompted the search for more economical and efficient launch solutions. This led to the emergence of commercial launch providers, such as Space X and Blue Origin, which have revolutionized the industry with the development of reusable rocket technology. The Falcon 9, for instance, has demonstrated the feasibility of reusing first-stage boosters, significantly reducing launch costs and increasing the frequency of satellite deployments. Moreover, the evolution of launchers has been closely linked to advancements in satellite technology. Modern satellites are equipped with sophisticated instrumentation and capabilities, necessitating launch vehicles that can accommodate larger payloads and deliver them to precise orbits. The integration of small satellite technology has further diversified the launch market, leading to the proliferation of dedicated small satellite launchers and rideshare missions.
Abstract: The advancement of launch vehicles has been pivotal in shaping the landscape of space exploration and satellite deployment. This abstract examines the historical evolution of launchers, from early ballistic rockets to contemporary reusable systems, and their profound impact on the deployment and operational capabilities of satellites. The developme...
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Research Article
Seasonal Variations in Equatorial Ionospheric Response to Geomagnetic Storms Using GNSS ROTI Observations
Ojochenemi Ikani*,
Tudunwada Ibrahim Yakubu,
Yusuf Najib,
Dominic Chukwuebuka Obiegbuna
Issue:
Volume 11, Issue 1, June 2025
Pages:
14-22
Received:
26 May 2025
Accepted:
12 June 2025
Published:
9 September 2025
Abstract: This study investigates the equatorial ionospheric response to geomagnetic storms using the rate of change of total electron content (TEC) index (ROTI) derived from Global Navigation Satellite Systems (GNSS) data as a measure of ionospheric irregularities. TEC data were collected from GNSS stations across Nigeria, with days classified as quiet (|Dst| < 30 nT) or disturbed (|Dst| ≥ 50 nT), analyzed separately for daytime and nighttime periods. The response to the geomagnetic storm on February 19, 2014, was examined, along with three sudden storm commencements (SSCs) on February 15, 20, and 23, and a high-speed solar wind event on February 19. Findings indicate that geomagnetic storms did not inhibit irregularities but partially suppressed them during the storm’s initial and recovery phases, with irregularities peaking during the main phase. Higher ROTI values were recorded during the March equinox compared to the September equinox, under both quiet and disturbed conditions. Irregularities were generally suppressed on disturbed days during the September equinox but were more prevalent during the March equinox. The December solstice exhibited an overall inhibition of irregularities, contrasting with equinox patterns. Morning ROTI values remained below 0.35 TECU/min, while daytime values ranged from 0.35 to 0.8 TECU/min, indicating moderate irregularities. This study provides insights crucial for improving GNSS reliability in equatorial regions. Continuous monitoring, expanded GNSS networks, and predictive models are recommended to mitigate storm-induced disruptions to communication and navigation systems.
Abstract: This study investigates the equatorial ionospheric response to geomagnetic storms using the rate of change of total electron content (TEC) index (ROTI) derived from Global Navigation Satellite Systems (GNSS) data as a measure of ionospheric irregularities. TEC data were collected from GNSS stations across Nigeria, with days classified as quiet (|Ds...
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