IPS (Instrumented Precursor Satellites)

Instrumented Precursor Satellites (IPS) are specialized orbiting devices designed to study and monitor space weather, Earth's magnetosphere, and similar phenomena. They carry advanced instruments to collect data on particles, magnetic fields, and radiation in space. This information helps scientists understand how space environments affect satellite operations, communications, and power systems on Earth. IPS are often part of a larger space research effort, providing early warnings and insights that improve safety and resilience for space-based and terrestrial technologies. Essentially, they act as scientific sentinels, gathering crucial data from above to inform our understanding below.