# Collaborative Research: RAPID: Time-Critical Ground-Based Observations of the Geocorona During the Primary Science Phase of the Carruthers Geocorona Observatory

> **NSF 01002627DB NSF RESEARCH & RELATED ACTIVIT** · Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University (FL) · $121,406

## Abstract

Surrounding Earth is the exosphere, a vast cloud of hydrogen atoms that forms the outermost edge of our atmosphere and extends tens of thousands of kilometers into space. This region plays important yet poorly understood roles in atmosphere near-space interactions, including how Earth recovers from geomagnetic storms — solar-driven disturbances that can disrupt satellite communications, GPS navigation, and power grids. The project serves the national interest by improving space weather prediction and resilience, helping to protect satellites, critical infrastructure and astronauts. It advances fundamental understanding of how Earth’s atmosphere interacts with the space environment, with broader implications for atmospheric escape and planetary habitability. The work aligns with national priorities for distributed ground-based observing systems and supports student training through a multi-institutional collaboration with openly accessible data products.

This project leverages a rare, time-sensitive opportunity created by recent start of science operations for NASA’s Carruthers Geocorona Observatory, coinciding with the decline from the peak of solar cycle 25. During the period of elevated solar activity, overlapping space- and ground-based observations of Earth’s extended hydrogen atmosphere are planned. Because spacecraft cannot fully observe the nightside of Earth, a distributed network of ground-based observatories across North and South America would be used to fill th

## Key facts

- **NSF award ID:** 2621293
- **Awardee organization:** Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University (FL)
- **SAM.gov UEI:** U5MMBAC9XAM5
- **PI:** Edwin J Mierkiewicz
- **Primary program:** 01002627DB NSF RESEARCH & RELATED ACTIVIT
- **All programs:** RAPID
- **Estimated total:** $121,406
- **Funds obligated:** $121,406
- **Transaction type:** Standard Grant
- **Period:** 06/01/2026 → 05/31/2027

## Primary source

NSF Award Search: https://www.nsf.gov/awardsearch/showAward?AWD_ID=2621293

## Citation

> US National Science Foundation, Award 2621293, Collaborative Research: RAPID: Time-Critical Ground-Based Observations of the Geocorona During the Primary Science Phase of the Carruthers Geocorona Observatory. Retrieved via AI Analytics 2026-06-08 from https://api.ai-analytics.org/grant/nsf/2621293. Licensed CC0.

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