Solar & geomagnetic impacts

Credit:

ESA/A. Baker

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Solar activity - such as solar flares, coronal mass ejections, or high-speed streams - significantly influences the ionosphere and the plasma environment near Earth. When such energetic events interact with the Earth’s magnetic field, geomagnetic storms can occur, drastically altering the structure, density, and dynamics of the upper atmosphere.

The institute investigates the physical processes along the entire chain of effects - from the Sun, through interactions with the magnetosphere, to ionospheric effects. By combining observations, data analysis, and modeling, the institute contributes to the characterization and prediction of space weather events in order to protect technological systems from potential disruptions at an early stage. In addition, technologies are being developed to minimize or completely eliminate negative impacts on technical systems.

The Institute for Solar-Terrestrial Physics

  • investigates the effects of solar flares, coronal mass ejections, and high-speed streams on the ionosphere and magnetosphere.
  • investigates the effects of high-energy particles on the atmosphere.
  • analyzes geomagnetic storms in terms of their dynamics, intensity, and regional impacts.
  • combines observational data with coupled models along the entire Sun–Earth interaction chain.
  • develops methods for detecting and characterizing space weather-related disturbances.
  • supports the development of forecasting and early-warning systems for space weather-related effects.