The Elektro-L hydrometeorological satellite, equipped with the SKIF-VE spectrometer, has been launched into orbit. This information comes from the press service of Moscow State University.
The February 5 lift-off occurred at Baikonur Cosmodrome. SKIF-VE was developed by the DV Skobeltsyn Nuclear Physics Research Institute at Moscow State University to measure particle fluxes across a broad energy spectrum. Such measurements are a cornerstone of monitoring radiation conditions in near-Earth space. They enable the creation of a space weather database and help link current radiation levels with solar activity.
Vladislav Osedlo, Vice President of SINP MSU, explained that the Elektro-L satellite No. 4 and its SKIF-VE instrument form part of an expanding multilayer system for heliogeophysical surveillance of near-Earth space. This framework aims to provide operational forecasts of radiation conditions in space that can impact onboard systems of spacecraft and, potentially, crew on manned missions.
A separate note references an asteroid mining venture called AstroForge, with two missions reportedly planned for 2023. [Source: Moscow State University press service]