LaboratOry for the Behavior of the SloT Region: a small mission doing big radiation science

Rachael Filwett; David Miles; Allison Jaynes; Christine Gabrielse

doi:10.3389/fspas.2025.1654754

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LaboratOry for the Behavior of the SloT Region: a small mission doing big radiation science

Journal article

Open access

Peer reviewed

LaboratOry for the Behavior of the SloT Region: a small mission doing big radiation science

Rachael Filwett, David Miles, Allison Jaynes and Christine Gabrielse

Frontiers in astronomy and space sciences, Vol.12, 1654754

08/28/2025

DOI: 10.3389/fspas.2025.1654754

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Abstract

This paper outlines the science and basic design choices associated with a mission concept study known as the LaboratOry for the Behavior of the SloT Region (LOBSTR). This mission concept focuses on energetic particles, both electrons and protons, as they impinge upon the slot region in the Van Allen radiation belts around Earth. In particular, it emphasizes the drift dynamics of particles that were not captured by Van Allen Probes. We conceptualize a mission, utilizing state-of-the-art instruments and components, and calculate the mission’s orbit, thrust, and radiation requirements using industry-standard methods. The concept uses two SmallSats in a near-equatorial orbit, with precise orbital timing to capture the desired dynamics. The total radiation dose and the details of the orbital dynamics are examined and found to be within the capabilities of current technology.

mission concept

radiation belt

drift

radiation

energetic particles

Details

Title: Subtitle: LaboratOry for the Behavior of the SloT Region: a small mission doing big radiation science
Creators: Rachael Filwett - Montana State University
David Miles - University of Iowa
Allison Jaynes - University of Iowa
Christine Gabrielse - The Aerospace Corporation
Resource Type: Journal article
Publication Details: Frontiers in astronomy and space sciences, Vol.12, 1654754
DOI: 10.3389/fspas.2025.1654754
ISSN: 2296-987X
eISSN: 2296-987X
Publisher: FRONTIERS MEDIA SA
Grant note: NASA: 80NSSC24K0337, 80NSSC18K1050 NSF: 1936343
The author(s) declare that financial support was received for the research and/or publication of this article. This work was supported by NASA grants 80NSSC24K0337 and 80NSSC18K1050 and the NSF award 1936343.
Language: English
Date published: 08/28/2025
Academic Unit: Physics and Astronomy; University College Courses
Record Identifier: 9984958612202771

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