News and Events (in Russian for the time being)

Numerical modeling of the neutron albedo of the Moon and Mars and analysis of experimental data from the Russian instruments HEND, LEND, DAN, and FREND made it possible to study the behavior of the neutron component of the radiation background on the surfaces of these celestial bodies under quiet Sun conditions and during intense solar events. These results are important for assessing radiation risks for future manned space missions.

The work cycle describes possible flight scenarios for scientific spacecraft that can be implemented using the resonant dynamics method and gravity assist maneuvers.

Oxygen airglow, cloud optical thickness, and water vapour content in Venus’s lower atmosphere were studied based on analysis of the complete set of observations from the SPICAV spectrometer aboard the Venus Express spacecraft.

Researchers from IKI and their colleagues at the Dagestan Federal Research Center of the RAS using Earth remote sensing data developed a methodology, which automatically identifies pastures that have lost their natural vegetation cover due to desertification. They also assessed the changes of exposed sands areas in southern regions of Russia over several years.

Researchers from the Space Plasma Physics Department of IKI RAS proposed a mechanism underlying a new type of terrestrial magnetospheric radio emission — a nonthermal hectometric continuum-type emissions. Having studied its manifestations for nearly seven years, they found regular patterns, which are related, among other things, to solar activity.

The conference started at IKI on 22 December 2025.

The State Commission has decided to complete the flight tests of the Ionozond space system with the Ionosphere-M No. 1, No. 2, No. 3, and No. 4 satellites.

The model describing the infrared radiation of interstellar dust inside the Solar system may help with the studies of the activity of far-away stars.

November 29 Russian Science Foundation announced the winners of the contest of small scientific teams. Among them is the project led by IKI scientist.

Using data from Venus Express SPICAV infrared spectrometer, IKI scientists determined the ratio of water vapour in the lowest layers of Venusian atmosphere. Depending on the model, it is 23.6–27.7 ppmv and does not depend on the local time or season. Results are published in Atmosphere journal.