A study of the charged particle calibration requirements for the Deep Space Network

A study made of the Deep Space Network charged particle calibration requirements is discussed. The effects of charged particles on navigation and timing systems were reviewed and it was proposed that a system based upon the Global Positioning System satellites be used to measure the charged particle content of the ionosphere. The system would be required to measure the total electron content of the ionosphere to the order of 10 to the 16th power electron per square meter. Two types of systems were suggested as possible candidates for making these measurements.