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AGIM Advanced Global Ionospheric Monitoring System

AGIM Map of vertical TEC over Europe as generated by SWACI with an update rate of 5 minutes (1TECU=1x1016 m-2). The color code indicates also the corresponding ionospheric vertical range error.

Being aware of possible severe ionospheric impact on Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) applications, ESA has released a call entitled “GNSS Contribution to Next Generation Global Ionospheric Monitoring” in November 2008. Main task of the project is the elaboration of a concept for an Advanced Global Ionospheric Monitoring System (AGIM).
The concept shall describe a monitoring system that is able to provide accurate and reliable ionospheric information with high spatial and temporal resolution. From a technical point of view the system must be robust and well suited for routine operational use.
Multi frequency GNSS data, available from an increasing number of GNSS stations will form an excellent data base. Different approaches for reconstructing and modelling the ionosphere are considered.
Because DLR monitors the ionosphere since more than one solar cycle by using ground and space based GPS techniques, DLR essentially contributes to AGIM.
Based on the analysis of the state of the art of ionosphere modelling and observation techniques including those provided by the subcontractors, optimal solutions for an Advanced Global Ionospheric Monitoring System shall be recommended.

Duration of the project:

2/2009-12 /2009

Prime contractor:

Electronic Data Systems Operations Services GmbH (EDS)

Other Subcontractors:

QinetiQ Ltd
Centre for RF Propagation and Atmospheric Research (Malvern, Worcestershire)

Universitat Politècnica de Catalunya
Research Group of Astronomy and Geomatics (gAGE/UPC)