First-Principles Simulations of Violent Space-Weather Events
Abstract
We have developed a first-principles model for simulating the initiation and propagation of magnetic eruptions originating in the Sun's atmosphere. The ejecta from these violent events adversely affect military and civilian facilities and operations on Earth. Energetic particles and radiation also pose prompt, direct hazards to technological systems and humans in space. Recently we have demonstrated that slow, coherent motions across the solar surface can energize susceptible magnetic field configurations and power subsequent catastrophic eruptions. The velocities and energies of our simulated events compare favorably with those observed, as do their morphological magnetic-field and plasma signatures. Our results also exhibit homology (repeated similar events originating from a single source), prompt reformation of the source region in the low solar atmosphere, and a magnetic-bottle configuration of the ejected field in the interplanetary medium. A fundamental understanding of these phenomena is a prerequisite for future physics-based forecasting of space weather.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jan 01, 2008
- Accession Number
- ADA517985
Entities
People
- C. R. Devore
- S. K. Antiochos
Organizations
- United States Naval Research Laboratory