Exploration of energization and Radiation in Geospace (ERG) is a planned research satellite that will be used to study the Van Allen belts. JAXA is developing the mission, which is scheduled to be launched on December 20, 2016, aboard Epsilon launch vehicle.[1]
Spacecraft
The ERG spacecraft is the second satellite based on SPRINT bus, after Hisaki (SPRINT-A). ERG weighs about 350 kg, measures about 1.5 m × 1.5 m × 2.7 m at launch.[2] Once in orbit, it will extend four solar panels, two 5 m masts, and four 15 m wire antennae.[2] The spacecraft is spin-stabilized at 7.5 rpm (8 seconds).[2]
Planned mission duration is one year of scientific observation, with extension if possible.[2]
MGF is located at the end of 5 m extended mast.[2]
PWE consists of a search coil (PWE-MSC) located at the end of another 5 m exteded mast, four 15 m wire antennae (PWE-WPT), and associated electronics unit (PWE-E).[2]
S-WPIA will analyze the data obtained by other instruments.[2]
