Artemis II launch linked to major ionosphere disruption

Science · First reported 4 Nov, 17:00 · Updated 17:28

Image: Wikimedia Commons · Francis Matahum · CC BY-SA 4.0

Researchers reported that Artemis II’s launch and upper-stage engine burns created large ionospheric disturbances and altered GPS signals. The supplied reporting highlights possible effects on precise navigation, including for autonomous vehicles and drones.

Researchers observed two ionospheric gaps after the Artemis II mission; the article reports that each extended across a 3,100-mile-wide swath of the American continent.
The reported disturbances followed the rocket’s passage through the atmosphere and two upper-stage engine burns about 115 miles above Earth.
Researchers used terrestrial GPS receiver data to assess how the ionosphere affected signal travel times.
The article says the resulting positioning errors were several feet and could matter for autonomous-car lane changes and drone positioning.
A second centre-side snippet says researchers are still examining potential impacts; it does not provide further details.

Summary written by Lux AI from 3 articles

Key facts

Observed features: Two ionospheric gaps, each described as spanning a 3,100-mile-wide swath across the American continent.
Reported altitude of upper-stage burns: 115 miles above Earth.
Reported positioning error: Several feet.
Assessment method: Terrestrial GPS receiver data were used to measure signal travel times.