Geosciences Dept. Seminar: The solar origin of space weather

Abstract:

Space weather characterizes the conditions and the dynamics of the plasma, and the energetic particles in the heliosphere. Solar magnetic activity such as  coronal mass ejections (CMEs), flares, and the solar wind drive space weather events that affect the earth and cause geomagntic storms. Recently, it has been realized that space weather can adversely affect important electrical, communication, and technological infrastructures with possible catastrophic results, calling for protective and mitigative measures on national and international levels. I will discuss the solar origin of space weather, and present observational and modeling results of CMEs, fast and slow solar wind with associated solar coronal holes and streamers. I will also discuss the variability of space weather as a result of solar magnetic activity cycle. I will present an overview of current predictive capabilities of space weather based on spacecraft data and numerical modeling, and planned future developments in this field.

Seminar Organizer: Dr. Ravit Heled