Space Weather: Modeling Polar Cap Dynamics

研究人员将使用磁流体动力学（MHD）代码研究极冠动力学对太阳风条件的依赖性。模型结果将与使用加拿大尤里卡光学数据获得的极冠动态观测结果进行比较。将特别强调行星际磁场在方向上发生明显变化的时期，光学数据显示出明显的极光行为。模拟结果将用于确定极冠边界，并与尤里卡测量值或卫星图像（如有）进行比较。研究结果将成为改进极地磁场模型、预测太阳粒子进入区域以及预测卫星和电离层高度轨迹的基础。结果还将增强对极冠极光动态和起源的了解。磁流体动力学模型在帮助减轻空间天气效应对技术系统的潜在危害方面具有很大的潜力。

The investigators will study the dependence of polar cap dynamics on solar wind conditions using a magnetohydrodynamic (MHD) code. The model results will be compared with observations of polar cap dynamics obtained using optical data from Eureka, Canada. Particular emphasis will be placed on periods when the interplanetary magnetic field makes pronounced changes in direction and the optical data show distinct auroral behavior. Simulation results will be used to specify the polar cap boundaries which will be compared to the Eureka measurements or satellite images, when available. The research results will form the basis for improved models of the polar magnetic field, for prediction of solar particle entry regions, and for predicting trajectories to satellite and ionospheric altitudes. The results will also enhance understanding of the dynamics and origins of polar cap aurora. MHD models have great potential in helping to mitigate the potential hazards on technological systems due to space weather effects.