Auroral research (Northern Lights) using optical, magnetic, magnetotelluric, and radio techniques. Monitoring and technology testing.
The Athabasca University GeoSpace Observatory is Canada’s most comprehensive auroral research facility including instruments from major international guest investigators. The dark sky location on the southern edge of the auroral zone has allowed the team to specialize in phenomena such as proton auroras and “STEVE”. Their new geoelectric monitoring facility is unique in Canada.
The research team can test and prototype geophysical, astronomical, and space surveillance equipment needing dark sky conditions and have good internet access and support facilities. They have prototyping and testing capability and experience with microcontrollers. Additionally, they have modelling and analytical capability, mostly involving C and Unix.
- Aerospace and satellites
- Defence and security industries
- Environmental technologies and related services
- Information and communication technologies and media
- Professional and technical services (including legal services, architecture, engineering)
Specialized labs and equipment
| Specialized lab | Equipment | Function |
|---|---|---|
| AUGO I | Sky and weather monitoring Telescope | Dual observation site for AUGSO |
| Keo Sentry EMCCD Allsky camera | Aurora monitoring in multiple wavelengths | |
| FESO proton line scanner | Meridian monitoring of Hbeta emissions: most sensitive such detector in the work (twin in Lucky Lake SK) | |
| Algolcam | DSLR-based astronomical instrument | |
| DSLR and small imager based instruments | Multiple instruments testing low-cost imaging |