NASA Science

Space weather just got a new watchful eye! 🛰️👀

On May 14, AEPEX CubeSat reached its target orbit after launching from Vandenberg Space Force Base.

AEPEX now orbits Earth, studying how high-energy particles from Earth’s radiation belts rain down into our upper atmosphere. Right now, it's really hard to monitor this over large areas of our planet. AEPEX will image the X-rays produced during these events so scientists can map the activity.

Better maps mean better space weather forecasts, which help protect our radio communications, satellites, and everyday technology down here on Earth.

More: go.nasa.gov/4tDxmpb