The MIT Incoherent Scatter Performance Simulator (MIPS)

Next generation Geospace Radar systems can be constructed using digital radio arrays in combination with appropriate transmitter systems. This leads to a radar architecture capable of a wide range of active and passive measurements of the Geospace environment. Such systems go beyond traditional incoherent scatter radars by incorporating aspects of modern low frequency astronomical radio arrays. If costs can be kept low enough, these designs make feasible the construction of a global network of systems capable of autonomous operation. This would provide wide scale, ground based measurements of fundamental physical parameters in the Geospace environment. Such measurements enable diverse scientific investigations from the lower atmosphere to the surface of the Sun. Investigations can also extend to the larger universe beyond for specific astronomical goals (e.g. fast transient searches).