Sharing solar storm data to analyse radiation hazards
Solar flares are sudden eruptions of tremendous magnetic energy in the Sun’s atmosphere. As the energy is released particles including electrons and protons (solar energetic particles or SEPs) are heated and accelerated in the solar atmosphere. SEPs generate solar radiation storms that affect spacecraft, satellites and astronauts. As modern society is extremely dependent on satellites through telecommunications and global positioning systems (GPS), it is also vulnerable to the effects of SEPs. European scientists are developing a new tool to facilitate sharing of SEP data and related electromagnetic (EM) observations as well as analysis methods with EU funding of the SEPServer project. The server combines data from numerous instruments measuring SEPs in near-Earth interplanetary medium and farther out in the heliosphere with EM data on SEP events from ground-based observations. In addition, SEPServer has delivered simulation tools for analysis of energetic electrons and protons as well as data plotting capabilities, already employed by the team with important results. All data and methods will be supplied to the community with complete documentation including error estimates promoting correct use and interpretation of the data. The consortium is also focusing on establishing relationships with other projects and organisations .Project results are anticipated to add value to current and future space missions and ground observations through correct use and coordinated exploitation of SEP and EM data. In addition, educational material to be developed includes a set of lecture notes and practical exercises suitable for a Master’s level university course on solar eruptions and space environment. The comprehensive space storm analysis service combining European and national activities should facilitate accurate study of SEP events and their radiation hazards.
