The flow of solar energy in to the earth's upper atmosphere - hf radar studies of energy transfer processes

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Project objective

Research objectives and content: As the Sun's matter boils off in to space it emits a stream of charged particles, termed the solar wind. The solar wind particles carrycab) energy towards the Earth. Mankind has a basic, qualititative understanding of how energy from the solar wind is transfered in to our upper atmosphere. However, detailed understanding of the processes involved is still sought and is essential if we are to protect the technology systems (spacecraft, ...) which are vulnerable to storms on the Sun. Using HF radar data from an international network, coupled with satellite data, it is proposed to study the small-scale ionosphere signatures of the energy transfer process. Through understanding of this process it will be possible to give more quantitive description of the energy transfer between the solar wind and the Earth's magnetosphere. Training content (objective, benefit and expected impact): BAS and the larger UK community have an international reputation as leader's in this field, specifically in the study of dayside coupling processes between the magnetosphere and the Earth' s upper atmosphere. The aim will be to impart this knowledge to the applicant and enable him to apply the advanced analysis techniques he has developed to this field. Through exposure to all the Polar Science pursued within BAS and the wider Cambridge academic community, broaden the applicants scientific experience. Links with industry / industrial relevance (22): The basic physics studies proposed have application to Space Weather forecasting, whose customer base is the communisation navigation and remote sensing spacecraft operators and also the ground power distribution network in countries close to the auroral region. HF propagation and the use of OTH radar surveillance are other areas that may benefit from these studies.

Original text from CORDIS.

Participants

• NATURAL ENVIRONMENT RESEARCH COUNCIL · SWINDONCoordinatorUnited Kingdom

Links

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