Global Change: Cosmic Rays, Solar Activity, Geomagnetism, Cosmogenic Isotopes and Climate

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This project represents a collaborative effort between the University of Arizona and the A.F. Ioffe Physical-Technical Institute in Russia. They have had a long history of interest in the use of cosmogenic isotopes from the natural archives to obtain information concerning solar-terrestrial interaction and astrophysical phenomena prior to instrumental observation and measurement. The focus is primarily on the cosmogenic isotopes 14C and 10Be that are produced in the Earth's atmosphere by cosmic rays. Cosmic rays convey information concerning astrophysical events such as supernova explosions and are also modulated by the Earth's dipole magnetic field and the magnetic fields associated with the solar wind that varies with other aspects of solar activity. the products are deposited in such natural archives as tree-rings, polar and montane ice, as well as lake and marine sediments. Both institutions have associated cosmogenic isotope laboratories and tree-ring research laboratories as well as access to vast regions containing the necessary natural archives. The cooperative research effort would enhance knowledge of the frequency of supernova explosions in the Earth's vicinity and provide information on past changes in the geomagnetic field and solar activity extending back several million years. This work has practical socioeconomic significance because, for example, solar activity is a factor in climate change. #