Enabling electronic communications in the Arctic

Sodankylä Geophysical Observatory is analyzing satellite data in the Arctic region. Solar flares have been known to affect electronic communications, interfering with cell phone reception, communications satellites and radio broadcasts. This is especially problematic in the Arctic, as the region is continuously affected by significant space weather disturbances. The communication disturbances also complicate the potential sea and air traffic in the Northwest Passage, where functioning navigation and communication systems are essential.

In order to be able to better understand and predict the communication interruptions occurring in the Arctic region, a research facility with direct access to satellites and capability of developing required measurement systems is needed. Sodankylä Geophysical Observatory provides a solution for this.

The solution

Sodankylä Geophysical Observatory is located 120 km north of the Arctic Circle in Finland, an optimal location for accessing real time satellite data from polar-orbiting satellites. As the leading Arctic Geospace Environment research operator in Finland, the observatory provides state of the art infrastructure and highly qualified international staff for performing a variety of geophysical measurements.

Cooperation with the observatory enables the development of new research information and technical solutions, helping us to identify and prevent electronic communication disruptions occurring in the Arctic. SGO works in cooperation with over 200 research facilities around the world and operates in shared premises with the brand new Arctic Space Center of Finnish Meteorological Institute.