Data Assimilation for better global neutral density specification and forecast

Neutral density measurements are difficult to make, limited in number and coverage, and

often suffer from large and poorly specified uncertainties. This makes the option to im-

prove neutral density specification using thermosphere/ionosphere measurements very

attractive for satellite collision avoidance applications. Better neutral density specification

and forecast can reduce the uncertainty in satellite and debris positioning, lower satellite

fuel consumption, and help prevent the Kessler Syndrome. Using the Thermosphere Iono-

sphere Data Assimilation (TIDA) package, we investigate whether it is possible to improve

global thermosphere neutral density results by assimilating a variety of measurements

taken within the thermosphere/ionosphere system.