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Research | Space Research
Space Research
Besides the atmosheric phenomena the Finnish Meteorological Institute (FMI) has a strong involvement in the Earth and Space Science studies. Our oldest field of research is concerned with the magnetic field of the Earth, which we have been measuring since 1844. Our first measurements are among the earliest ever measured. Measurements are conducted today at Nurmijärvi Geophysical Observatory and many other observation points.
FMI started regular optical auroral observations already in 1957. In 1996 the film cameras were replaced by new digital equipment. In addition to optical data we use auroral radar observations. Radars monitor various auroral phenomena occuring in the atmosphere at altitudes of 100-1000 km.
These ground based observations are utilized in auroral research at the FMI and other institutes in Finland and abroad. By comparing ground based observations with satellite data we get new insight into the near-Earth space phenomena.
Today a new challenge for the research of solar-terrestrial physics is to support the attempts to predict space weather. Space weather concerns how the dynamic space environment, influenced by conditions on the Sun, can have hazardous effects on technical and biological systems, both in space and on ground. FMI has a crucial role especially in the establishment of European space weather activities.
In the 1980's our research extended to contain the planetary studies. We have taken part in the design and manufacturing of spaceborne instruments which study Mars, the moon Titan of Saturn, comets and gas and dust in the solar system. Today our instruments measure the radiation scattered by hydrogen gas in the solar system and by dust particles between the planets. The satellite which measured the properties of the atmosphere of the Saturn moon Titan has landed there in January 2005 and performed the planned measurements as expected.
Space projects are multi-national. FMI continuously co-operates with ESA (European Space Agency), NASA (National Aeronautics and Space Administration) and Russian space organizations.
Since January 2006 the Space Research division participates in the Kumpula Space Centre (KSC) project in cooperation with the Helsinki University.
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