CD2 – Bridging Science and Society: Educational and Outreach Initiatives in Space Weather and Space Climate
Talks
CD2 Mon 4/11 12:00-13:00, room C2A – Mondego
Author(s): Katz Olivier, Falque Baptiste, Lilensten Jean
COMEA – AurorAlpes; COMEA – AurorAlpes; IPAG – CNRS
Abstract: The COMEA (Alpine Space Weather Operationnal Centre), launched on October 30, 2023, aims to establish a complete forecasting chain, from observation to the distribution of space weather bulletins to the general public.
The aim is to disseminate recurrent bulletins (daily, weekly, monthly or quarterly) via the media in the vernacular languages.
Every week, COMEA’s forecasters and the various groups supporting them (astrophotographers, partner laboratories and research groups, aso.) work together to produce the most informed and rigorous forecasts possible. This forecast bulletin is then sent to a scientific advisory board comprising E-SWAN experts for validation. After their comments have been taken into account, the COMEA team writes public bulletins for the press, radio and television. The texts are then sent to the local correspondent through the E-SWAN network (Europe) and the GIRGEA network (https://www.girgea.org/en/) (Africa) for validation and translation (community expert). Once the translated texts have been returned, the COMEA implements the audio and visual frames to enable coordinated distribution to the world’s media.
We will show an outline of how to set up a bulletin and the plan for distributing it throughout Europe and Africa and then worldwide. Our goal is to internationalize these bulletins and distribute them in 30 countries by 2025, making E-SWAN a world spearhead. We are looking for local correspondents in multiple countries.
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Author(s): Audrey Schillings, Gregeory Kennedy, Micheala Mooney, The Wreake Valley Academy students
University of Leicester, UK, Umeå University, Sweden, DTU Space, Denmark; School of Physics and Astronomy, University of Leicester, UK; School of Physics and Astronomy, University of Leicester, UK; Wreake Valley Academy, UK
Abstract: From January to June 2024, we conducted an outreach and education project in partnership with a UK secondary school through the Orbyts program. The Orbyts program establishes partnerships between secondary school students and university researchers to involve students in a scientific project with real data, engaging their curiosity, creativity and breaking a potential misconception of researchers/scientists. During 11 sessions of 90 minutes, the students analysed strong variations of Earth’s magnetic field or dB/dt spikes, associated solar wind and auroral DMSP data.
The few first sessions were dedicated to getting to know each other, general science concepts and introduction of the project. Afterward we investigated dB/dt spikes for four geomagnetic storms with a SYM-H index lower than 100 nT and the corresponding solar wind. Finally, the students looked at the DMSP passes for auroral features associated with the dB/dt spikes and we discussed their findings together as a group. The project final was a “mini-conference” where all participating students were invited to the university to meet and learn about the other partnership schools and project as well as outreach activities and information toward higher education.
We will present the student science results for the four investigated geomagnetic storms, describe how we worked and conducted the project, its challenges, disadvantages, and achievements.
General information on Orbyts program https://www.ucl.ac.uk/astrophysics/outreach/orbyts
Author(s): Vincent Ledvina, Elizabeth MacDonald, Laura Edson, Tanya Melnik, Jeremy Kuzub
University of Alaska Fairbanks; NASA Goddard Space Flight Center, Aurorasaurus, New Mexico Consortium; NASA Goddard Space Flight Center, Aurorasaurus, New Mexico Consortium; Upper Midwest Aurora Chasers; Jufa Intermedia
Abstract: Citizen science connects scientists with the public to enable discovery, engaging broad audiences across the world. Citizen science in the space weather community takes many forms, including funded projects, coordinated campaigns, and grassroots efforts. Aurora chasers in particular collaborate with scientists and are key players in nearly all processes of aurora research. This includes the direct study of auroral phenomena and developing and evaluating educational space weather materials and tools. In this presentation, we highlight three citizen science efforts and the ways in which they are advancing aurora research and space weather education. 1. Aurorasaurus is a NASA and NSF-funded citizen science project producing real-time maps of global auroral visibility by crowdsourcing ground-truth reports on its website. Aurorasaurus’ data have been used to validate operational models of the aurora (e.g., OVATION) and was involved in the first modern scientific publication of the rare auroral phenomenon STEVE. The project also engages communities through its Ambassador network and educational initiatives. 2. AurorEye is a portable, autonomous all-sky imager optimized for timelapse aurora photography. Units are deployed to aurora chasers who gather data in the field, and the resulting all-sky data are used in research and citizen science. AurorEye is being developed by Jeremy Kuzub. 3. The Upper Midwest Aurora Chasers (UMAC) is an online aurora chasing group conducting a comprehensive review of popular mobile applications serving aurora and space weather forecasts. Online aurora chasing groups around the world act as spaces where scientists can connect with the general public. These groups may be engaged directly in citizen science campaigns. In groups such as UMAC, they also may gather feedback from aurora chasers and collaborate with scientists on the efficacy of space weather products (e.g., official agency aurora forecasting products). Some of the most difficult questions in space physics require innovative research methods leveraging novel datasets and a variety of perspectives. Citizen science is emerging as an effective solution by which scientists can leverage the diverse skills and capabilities of enthusiast groups like aurora chasers for research, outreach initiatives, and education. Through collaboration, we empower people to become advocates of our science and the scientific process.
Author(s): Elana Resnick, Masha Kuznetsova, Leila Mays, Rick Mullinix, Chiu Wiegand, Yihua Zheng, Elon Olsson, Anders Lundkvist, Elizabeth MacDonald, Laura Brandt, Vincent Ledvina
NASA GSFC CCMC; ASRC Federal; NASA GSFC CCMC; NASA GSFC CCMC; NASA GSFC CCMC; NASA GSFC CCMC; NASA GSFC CCMC; NASA GSFC CCMC; CUA; NASA GSFC CCMC; University of Alaska Fairbanks
Abstract: The Community Coordinated Modeling Center (CCMC) from NASA Goddard Space Flight Center (GSFC) supports heliophysics educational endeavors such as space weather summer schools, contests, research visits and exchanges. The CCMC has developed new resources for the public to engage with the Sun’s influence on Earth and the entire solar system during the year leading to a solar maximum. Learn about the new resources available on the CCMC’s website to engage with the Heliophysics Big Year (HBY), the global celebration of solar science. The CCMC has enhanced their integrated Space Weather Analysis (iSWA) system with major updates in a beta version to enable the community to analyze dynamic time periods including great storms. The new tool allows synchronization of images and timelines to enable easy illustration of the onset and evolution of storms to a broader audience. It allows users to design layouts focusing on specific physical phenomena, like solar flares, along the Sun-to-Earth path to make it easier to communicate to a larger variety of audiences. This flexibility enables the educator to tailor the display to tell the story of the storms, describe key physical processes, and communicate this complex chain of space environment phenomena in a targeted fashion. Additionally, CCMC has partnered with the Aurorasaurus research project for a pilot to illustrate the dynamic of the aurora in the global context. Aurorasaurus, a research project within the New Mexico Consortium supported by the National Science Foundation and NASA, generates a real-time, global map of auroras via participatory science reports on its website. This partnership developed a narrative to tell the story of the March 2023 storm for a wide range of audiences, which could be adapted to other auroral events throughout the heliosphere. Through these new tools and partnerships, the CCMC aims to prepare the next generation to be space weather ready.
Posters
Posters I Display Tue 5/11 – Wed 6/11, room C1A – Aeminium
Authors in attendance: Tue 5/11 10:15–11:30, 15:15-16:15; Wed 6/11 10:15–11:30
Author(s): Lenka Zychova, Karolien Lefever, Stijn Calders, Norma Crosby, Mark Dierckxsens
Royal Belgian Institute for Space Aeronomy; Royal Belgian Institute for Space Aeronomy; Royal Belgian Institute for Space Aeronomy; Royal Belgian Institute for Space Aeronomy; Royal Belgian Institute for Space Aeronomy
Abstract: “A Touch of Space Weather (ATOS)”, a project developed and managed by the Royal Belgian Institute for Space Aeronomy, tackles accessibility in science education for blind and visually impaired (BVI) students. This innovative project utilizes meticulously crafted tactile images, made from readily available materials, inspiring these students to explore space weather phenomena through touch. Comprehensive instructions and video tutorials accompany these images, empowering educators, and families to recreate them, fostering active learning at home and in schools.
The project’s impact extends through a dedicated website housing space weather education resources. Users can access tactile image tutorials, interactive 3D models for exploration, and forthcoming multilingual audio booklets. Additionally, the project members actively engage with the BVI community through visits to specialized schools, fostering dialogue and gathering feedback to continuously improve educational materials.
ATOS promotes inclusivity going beyond the BVI community. Interactive workshops with sighted students do not only raise awareness about space weather, but also about visual impairment, fostering empathy, communication, and collaboration between diverse learners. These workshops provide a platform for all students to engage with the fascinating world of space weather and its effects. Recently, a collaboration with science students following a course on science communication and outreach at KU Leuven resulted in the creation of multisensory infographics, further enriching the educational material offered by ATOS.
This multifaceted approach of delivering knowledge, combined with a strong commitment to inclusivity, makes ATOS an example of a science outreach initiative that bridges accessibility gaps and generates a more welcoming learning environment for all. In this poster presentation the tactile images, as well as the various ATOS events that have been held will be described.
Author(s): Coco Igino, Alberti Tommaso, Bagiacchi Paolo, Cafarella Lili, Cesaroni Claudio, Cianchini Gianfranco, Di Mauro Domenico, Giannattasio Fabio, Ippolito Alessandro, Marcocci Carlo, Perrone Loredana, Pezzopane Michael, Pica Emanuele, Pignalberi Alessio, Romano Vincenzo, Sabbagh Dario, Spadoni Sabina, Scotto Carlo, Spogli Luca, Tozzi Roberta, Viola Massimo
Istituto Nazionale di Geofisica e Vulcanologia (INGV), Rome, Italy; Istituto Nazionale di Geofisica e Vulcanologia (INGV), Rome, Italy; Istituto Nazionale di Geofisica e Vulcanologia (INGV), Rome, Italy; Istituto Nazionale di Geofisica e Vulcanologia (INGV), Rome, Italy; Istituto Nazionale di Geofisica e Vulcanologia (INGV), Rome, Italy; Istituto Nazionale di Geofisica e Vulcanologia (INGV), Rome, Italy; Istituto Nazionale di Geofisica e Vulcanologia (INGV), Rome, Italy; Istituto Nazionale di Geofisica e Vulcanologia (INGV), Rome, Italy; Istituto Nazionale di Geofisica e Vulcanologia (INGV), Rome, Italy; Istituto Nazionale di Geofisica e Vulcanologia (INGV), Rome, Italy; Istituto Nazionale di Geofisica e Vulcanologia (INGV), Rome, Italy; Istituto Nazionale di Geofisica e Vulcanologia (INGV), Rome, Italy; Istituto Nazionale di Geofisica e Vulcanologia (INGV), Rome, Italy; Istituto Nazionale di Geofisica e Vulcanologia (INGV), Rome, Italy; Istituto Nazionale di Geofisica e Vulcanologia (INGV), Rome, Italy; Istituto Nazionale di Geofisica e Vulcanologia (INGV), Rome, Italy; Istituto Nazionale di Geofisica e Vulcanologia (INGV), Rome, Italy; Istituto Nazionale di Geofisica e Vulcanologia (INGV), Rome, Italy; Istituto Nazionale di Geofisica e Vulcanologia (INGV), Rome, Italy; Istituto Nazionale di Geofisica e Vulcanologia (INGV), Rome, Italy; Istituto Nazionale di Geofisica e Vulcanologia (INGV), Rome, Italy
Abstract: Communicating Space Weather correctly and effectively to society is becoming increasingly challenging due to the rise and growth of social media and the amplification of fake news. Since 2022, a group of people from the Environment Department of the Italian “Istituto Nazionale di Geofisica e Vulcanologia” (INGV) has taken on this challenge, aiming to gain and consolidate an influential position in the domain of Space Weather communication in Italy. The target is twofold: on one side, to address an educational-like communication to the general public; on the other side, to offer more technical and specific information for a more proficient audience (e.g., radio amateurs, specialised press, institutions, scientists). The focus of communication is on data and facilities that INGV directly handles in Italy and in the Mediterranean area (geomagnetic observatories, ionosondes, GNSS receivers for TEC and scintillation measurements). The aim is to promote research and fascinate people about phenomena which occur just above their heads (or under their own feet).
We follow this approach: 1) we monitor the conditions of the Sun and interplanetary space in quasi real-time through reliable reference sources (e.g., NOAA); 2) we promptly communicate through our “INGVAmbiente” profiles on main social media platforms (X, Mastodon, Facebook, and Instagram) the occurrence of Space Weather events selected according to given thresholds (e.g., solar flares of at least X-class; geomagnetic storms with Dst < -50 nT). These events are detected with semi-automatic tools when possible, and the language and content are tailored to the average audience of each platform; 3) we publish a weekly “Space Weather Bulletin over the Mediterranean Area”, written in English and featuring more technical contents, on a dedicated INGV web page (https://roma2.ingv.it/index.php/monitoraggio-e-sorveglianza/prodotti-del-monitoraggio/bollettini-di-space-weather). This bulletin is freely available to everyone but is specifically addressed to individuals with a basic science background and a specific interest in the subject.
The INGV-SWMG also contributes to the INGV Environment Department Blog (https://ingvambiente.com/), preparing informative articles for outreach and education on various aspects of Space Weather.
Author(s): Audrey Schillings, Gregeory Kennedy, Micheala Mooney, Jasmine Sandhu, Will Dunn, the Orbyts Team
University of Leicester, UK, Umeå University, Sweden, DTU Space, DEnmark; School of Physics and Astronomy, University of Leicester, UK; School of Physics and Astronomy, University of Leicester, UK; School of Physics and Astronomy, University of Leicester, UK; Physics and Astronomy, University College London, UK; UK
Abstract: STEM subjects, and particularly physics, suffer from a systemic lack of diversity and long-standing barriers to inclusion. The Orbyts project, is an educational program that aims to address these issues by partnering secondary school students with PhD students, postdoc researchers, and young scientists to work on original science research projects. Orbyts originates in the UK where the majority of school-researcher partnerships are established, although several projects have been conducted in other European countries and Jordan.
Orbyts aims to target misconceptions about who can participate in science and what science involves. It has successfully engaged students from under-represented groups, leading to an increase in the uptake of “post-16” STEM subjects in participating schools. Orbyts has resulted in over 100 research partnerships between researchers and schools, empowering more than 1500 students. Since 2018, these partnerships have resulted in over 18 publications in peer-reviewed scientific journals, with hundreds of secondary school students as authors.
The research-focus of an Orbyts partnership supports researchers to carry out their science research in a different context while mentoring and inspiring young people. The programme has proven to enhance essential transferable skills for researchers including communication skills training, project leadership and applied pedagogical experience. The long-term engagement and partnership style of Orbyts projects is key to widening access to science. Researchers provide relatable role models and humanise science research on an individual level, breaking down harmful stereotypes and misconceptions of who can be a scientist. The programme shows that Orbyts delivers profound improvements in inclusivity.
In conclusion, the Orbyts project represents a significant advancement in STEM education (proven in the UK). It not only inspires the next generation of scientists but also fosters a more inclusive and diverse scientific community. The continued support and expansion of such initiatives are crucial for the future of science and technology in the UK and beyond.
Orbyts website https://www.ucl.ac.uk/astrophysics/outreach/orbyts
Author(s): Elon Olsson, Masha Kuznetsova, Leila Mays, Elana Resnick, Anders Lundkvist, Elizabeth MacDonald, Laura Brandt
CCMC NASA; CCMC NASA; CCMC NASA; CCMC NASA; CCMC NASA; Aurorasaurus NASA; Aurorasaurus NASA
Abstract: The Community Coordinated Modeling Center (CCMC) at NASA Goddard Space Flight Center, along with Linköping University, Sweden, American Museum of Natural History, NYC, New York University, NYC and University of Utah, Salt Lake City develop the software OpenSpace. OpenSpace is an interactive 3D visualization and exploration tool that can run on devices from a personal laptop to a planetarium. OpenSpace supports dynamic data from observations, simulations and space mission planning and operation. By using results from heliophysics simulation models, available to be run at CCMC, a handful of different visuals can be made in OpenSpace. With the interactiveness of the software, these visualizations in context with real time and other simulation model outputs or for example satellite positions and trajectories, exploration of space in the software can really inspire the general public to participate in citizen science projects, to further education or even research. CCMC presents public lectures using OpenSpace in planetariums, an exhibit at the Swedish embassy in Washington DC as well as a partnership with the Aurorasaurus project for a pilot version are other outreach endeavors. Aurorasaurus is a research project within the New Mexico Consortium supported by the National Science Foundation and NASA. It generates a real-time, global map of auroras via participatory science reports on its website. By integrating their citizen science data into OpenSpace we can visualize how the auroras looked throughout the night globally during periods of heightened geomagnetic activity. In this session you will learn how we use OpenSpace to bring research, simulation visualizations, citizen science and observational data all in context with one another to the general public. The session will also inspire the audience to use it for their own needs and teach how to get started with using OpenSpace.
Author(s): Petra Vanlommel, Elke D’Huys
STCE; STCE
Abstract: Sporadic and massive solar eruptions of very high-energy matter and radiation from the Sun can have an impact on navigation, communication and transport of energy. In extreme cases, these eruptions pose a safety risk to human health. Businesses and organizations possibly impacted by space weather want to learn about this natural hazard to increase their resilience. But, it is not always straightforward to read, understand and interpret space weather bulletins and data available on the internet. Some users might be in the initial phase of space weather awareness and understanding and might not have found their way to an easy accessible space weather service yet. The Space Weather Education Centre, SWEC, offers basic and tailored courses for stakeholders that run space weather impacted operations and services. The courses address the barriers that users encounter while dealing with the question what space weather is, as well as where to find and how to interpret space weather parameters and indices. SWEC is an organization of the STCE, the Solar-Terrestrial Centre of Excellence.
The STCE is the place for research, data & services and education about Sun-Space-Earth and their interactions. The institute can rely on a rich history and expertise in solar and terrestrial observations & measurements, both on ground and from space. The STCE incorporates a Space Weather Service Centre, issuing daily space weather bulletins and warnings in case of space storms. SWEC builds on this firm academic and service experience and has qualified teachers and communicators.
Author(s): Haris Haralambous, Christina Oikonomou, Avgoustinos Tsaousis
Frederick University; Frederick Research Center; Frederick University
Abstract: This presentation will present the activities and efforts to perform outreach activities in the frame of Space Weather at Frederick University in Cyprus by organizing a Space Weather exhibition with the support of ESA within the framework of the ESA-PECS programme. This exhibition, based on translated material in Greek from various sources, aims to enhance awareness of the widest possible societal spectrum in Cyprus on the discipline of space weather but primarily aims to attract the interest of secondary education students.
Author(s): Emanuele Pica, Dario Sabbagh, Igino Coco, Paolo Bagiacchi, Tommaso Alberti, Lili Cafarella, Claudio Cesaroni, Gianfranco Cianchini, Domenico Di Mauro, Fabio Giannattasio, Alessandro Ippolito, Carlo Marcocci, Loredana Perrone, Michael Pezzopane, Alessio Pignalberi, Vincenzo Romano, Carlo Scotto, Sabina Spadoni, Luca Spogli, Roberta Tozzi, Massimo Viola
Istituto Nazionale di Geofisica e Vulcanologia (INGV); Istituto Nazionale di Geofisica e Vulcanologia (INGV); Istituto Nazionale di Geofisica e Vulcanologia (INGV); Istituto Nazionale di Geofisica e Vulcanologia (INGV); Istituto Nazionale di Geofisica e Vulcanologia (INGV); Istituto Nazionale di Geofisica e Vulcanologia (INGV); Istituto Nazionale di Geofisica e Vulcanologia (INGV); Istituto Nazionale di Geofisica e Vulcanologia (INGV); Istituto Nazionale di Geofisica e Vulcanologia (INGV); Istituto Nazionale di Geofisica e Vulcanologia (INGV); Istituto Nazionale di Geofisica e Vulcanologia (INGV); Istituto Nazionale di Geofisica e Vulcanologia (INGV); Istituto Nazionale di Geofisica e Vulcanologia (INGV); Istituto Nazionale di Geofisica e Vulcanologia (INGV); Istituto Nazionale di Geofisica e Vulcanologia (INGV); Istituto Nazionale di Geofisica e Vulcanologia (INGV); Istituto Nazionale di Geofisica e Vulcanologia (INGV); Istituto Nazionale di Geofisica e Vulcanologia (INGV); Istituto Nazionale di Geofisica e Vulcanologia (INGV); Istituto Nazionale di Geofisica e Vulcanologia (INGV); Istituto Nazionale di Geofisica e Vulcanologia (INGV)
Abstract: The weekly “Space Weather bulletin over the Mediterranean area” is a product developed by the Space Weather Monitoring Group (SWMG) of the Istituto Nazionale di Geofisica e Vulcanologia (INGV), Italy. Aim of the bulletin is to report the weekly conditions of the Sun-Earth environment, leveraging the INGV ground-based Observatories located in the Italian peninsula and Mediterranean area. In particular, the magnetometers operating at the geomagnetic Observatories of Duronia (41.65°N, 14.47°E), Castello Tesino (46.05°N, 11.65°E) and Lampedusa (35.52°N, 12.55°E) are capable of providing measurements of the magnetic field as well as the local K-index. The Ionospheric Observatories of Roma (41.8°N, 12.5°E) and Gibilmanna (37.9°N, 14°E) are equipped with an AIS-INGV Ionosonde routinely performing ionospheric soundings and automatically providing ionospheric parameters such as the foF2 and MUF(3000)F2. The Ionospheric Scintillation Monitoring Receiver (ISMR) in Lampedusa (35.52°N, 12.63°E), Chania (35.52°N, 25.04°E) and Nicosia (35.18°N, 33.38°E) form a zonal chain capable of monitoring ionospheric irregularities over the whole mediterranean area. Finally, the GNSS geodetic receivers of the RING network (ring.gm.ingv.it) enable the computation of Total Electron Content information over the whole region, performed by the IONORING algorithm. To complement these information with global ones, the X-Ray and Proton flux from the GOES satellites, the solar wind and Interplanetary Magnetic Field information from ACE and DSCOVR satellites and the global Kp and Dst index distributed by the NOAA Space Weather Prediction Center are reported in the bulletin to depict the overall status of the Sun-Earth environment during the week. The bulletin is generated with a fully automatic routine deployed as a microservice and its content is validated by the component of the SWMG group before the online publication (https://roma2.ingv.it/index.php/monitoraggio-e-sorveglianza/prodotti-del-monitoraggio/bollettini-di-space-weather). Besides a scientific audience, the Space Weather bulletin over the Mediterranean area can prove useful for radio amateurs, civil and military Institutions and other stakeholders interested in Space Weather effects.
Author(s): Fred Joe Nambala, Steven Mudenda, Onesmus Munyati, Rekha Rajan
University of Zambia; University of Zambia; University of Zambia; University of Zambia
Abstract: Space science has over the years become more and more important in various fields such as telecommunications, weather forecasting, and navigation systems. Africa currently has inadequate human resource and infrastructure to maximise potential gains from space science and its associated technologies. A scan across Africa shows insufficient training programmes in the fields of space science and technology that can provide the necessary skilled manpower. It is therefore imperative to develop training programmes at both undergraduate and postgraduate levels to address this gap. A cadre of professionals at postgraduate level is important for the advancement of scientific research. Given the various inadequacies highlighted, a collaborative effort to develop training programmes for capacity building across Africa is necessary. Such collaboration involves curriculum development and standardisation, credit transferability, and mobility among staff and students. This is in line with the African Space Policy and Strategy whose goals are to create a well-coordinated and integrated African Space Programme, that is globally competitive but responsive to the needs of the continent. In this paper we present the strategies for design, development and implementation of training programmes across a consortium of African countries under the FAST4Future project.
Author(s): Peter Butka, Martin Sarnovský
Technical University of Košice; Technical University of Košice
Abstract: The rapid growth of data-intensive and automated data processing in the space domain presents significant opportunities to involve more IT and computer science graduates in R&D projects in this field. This trend is further enhanced by the successful application of advanced data analytics and artificial intelligence/machine learning techniques. However, a persistent gap exists in graduates’ knowledge of domain-specific topics, and there is often a reluctance to pursue careers in space research due to a lack of clear expectations from potential employers. This gap can be bridged by providing additional, targeted knowledge to students in IT-related fields. As a compelling use case, we present the results of the ESA PECS-supported project SK-S2P-Edu. This project focused on analyzing computer science study programs at our Technical University of Košice (Faculty of Electrical Engineering and Informatics, Košice, Slovakia) and proposing modifications to better prepare students for roles in the Space Safety Program (S2P), including Space Weather topics. We conducted an analysis of the current state of computer science programs, identified gaps between the topics covered and those required by academia and industry in the Space Safety domain, and proposed targeted modifications. These modifications include the introduction of new courses, updates to existing course content, and the integration of relevant courses from other study programs. The methodology and findings of this study can be valuable to other universities or sub-domains within space research. Implementing the proposed changes can help close the knowledge gaps for graduates, making it easier for them to access new job opportunities in the space research domain.
Author(s): CEDRIC MORO
I-RESILIENCE
Abstract: In 2021, a major scientific debate opened up around the possibility of an “Internet apocalypse” linked to extreme geomagnetic storms, in which the GICs generated during a Carrington-type event could cause large-scale damages to optical signal repeaters on transoceanic submarine cables. However, this fear is not universally shared, not for example by Google researchers.
At regulatory level, geomagnetic storms and extreme GICs are not considered in the reliability standards for submarine optical cables, neither in national standards (ex: USA) nor in international standards. At technological level, specifications for submarine optical cables are not centralized, making it difficult to model the current network correctly. However, the current trend is towards increasing reliability of submarine optical cables via some new standards: power supply equipment redundancy from one end of the transoceanic cable to the other, increased capacity of Zener diodes protecting against GICs, greater resilience of SDM optical signal amplification systems, also. At scientific level, consensus is emerging only around the importance of near shore auroral electrojet induction phenomena, which are deemed significant at depths of less than 600/1000m.
Our research has led to the main vulnerabilities summarized in this poster:
– Coastal site effects, which amplify GICs, are not factored when selecting cable landing sites.
– WDM optical signal repeaters equipping a large part of the current network, are the most vulnerable, as many are equipped with Zener diodes rated at 200 A, which may not be sufficient to withstand a Carrington event (200 to 400 A in extreme GIC near the coast).
– SDM technology repeaters, which are beginning to be deployed, can afford 700 A, which may be sufficient for a Carrington event, but insufficient for a millennial event.
– Data relating to the grounding (via the sea) of submarine optical cables, which enable GICs to be evacuated, are not centralized and open, preventing correct modeling of GICs on the network.
– Taking into account a return period of 200 years as that of a Carrington event is far too restrictive, given the crucial importance of the Internet in our societies.
To improve S&T research on the resilience of the Internet to extreme geomagnetic storms, it is first necessary to centralize all specifications around submarine optical cables in an open information system. Studies should be carried out into the creation of priority data transport routes, resilient to an extreme ten-millennial solar event, to ensure the continuity of essential and vital communications. Finally, we need to study the implementation of large-scale action plans for the network (alerts, emergency management including plans to reduce operating power, rapid recovery and network refurbishment).
This task can only be achieved through collaboration between international networks (E-SWAN, ISES, etc.) specializing in space weather and space climate, in conjunction with private operators of submarine cable technology, and specialists in major risk prevention and in the resilience of human organizations to natural and technological disasters and health emergencies, such as I-Resilience.
Author(s): CEDRIC MORO
I-RESILIENCE
Abstract: Since its electrification, Europe has never faced a major geomagnetic storm at its mid-latitudes, unlike Northern America which has been affected three times (1859, 1921, 1989). Hence, many European countries have little risk culture when it comes to this hazard; as it is often observed in major hazards, the absence of a memorable disaster does not help much in fostering prevention or reduction measures.
A good example is that the ESA space weather website, which features myriads of observations and forecasts does not provide any content popularization or translation, confining the area to experts only. Many industries, including the rail industry, have not developed any standardized framework or action plan. Mid-latitude public hazard and emergency managers are little informed about the risks. Their ability to protect people and infrastructure are limited. Populations are hardly aware of this kind of hazard and are not in a position to build resilience against it. It is therefore essential to set forth the rational foundations of this risk culture – as may also be the case for other types of hazards- for the citizen to understand these issues and to support the relevant emergency measures.
This poster presents the notion of major hazard in space weather by illustrating hazard materialization (ground or near-shore GIC-inducing auroral electrojet) and its impact on assets (a coastal plain crossed by high-voltage lines, an electric railroad, submarine cables, satellite captors…). Elementary Physics principles such as electromagnetic induction are popularized but also the steps leading to geomatic storms. Technological systems are described in two phases: their operation during calm space weather, their potential disruption during extreme space weather conditions. A graphic design shows a home network likely to be affected, to explain that in exceptional circumstances, service providers will manage technical networks by decreasing operating power which will lead to interruptions. A new format of official surveillance and alert notices is suggested including a pre-alert phase when an extreme geomatic storm is likely and an alert phase when it is confirmed as it is already done for hurricanes. Lastly, this poster suggests some needed forecasts for the return of hazards to European mid-latitudes to rationally reshape the culture of risk.
Since the emergence of monotheistic religions, the crucial role of the sun has been repressed in the collective unconscious. Hence, megalithic sites have declined to the benefit of revealed religions and further, to the benefit of science, which carries the promise of a humanity in control of its future. The lights of the sun eventually gave way to mankind’s enlightenment. In this immaterial path, many astrophysicists are over-reassuringly insisting on the protective role of the magnetosphere while consciously knowing how our technological societies are exposed to major solar hazards. So, is claiming the power of the sun in our societies unconsciously deemed to be a regression? Could we not escape existential anxiety entrapment and argue in favor of an acceptance of the relative and slight vulnerability of the magnetosphere, to which our societies will survive but to which they could be better prepared?
Author(s): Giovanna Lucia Piangiamore, Sabina Maraffi, Francesco Sacerdoti, Valentina Bruno, Igino Coco, Sofia De Gregorio, Paola De Michelis, Anita Grezio, Alessandra Maramai, Michael Pezzopane, Lucia Santarelli, Roberta Tozzi, Paolo Madonia, Fabio Giannattasio
Istituto Nazionale di Geofisica e Vulcanologia (INGV), Italy; MIUR – Ministero della Pubblica Istruzione, Italy; Università degli Studi Federico II, Naples, Italy; Istituto Nazionale di Geofisica e Vulcanologia (INGV), Italy; Istituto Nazionale di Geofisica e Vulcanologia (INGV), Italy; Istituto Nazionale di Geofisica e Vulcanologia (INGV), Italy; Istituto Nazionale di Geofisica e Vulcanologia (INGV), Italy; Istituto Nazionale di Geofisica e Vulcanologia (INGV), Italy; Istituto Nazionale di Geofisica e Vulcanologia (INGV), Italy; Istituto Nazionale di Geofisica e Vulcanologia (INGV), Italy; Istituto Nazionale di Geofisica e Vulcanologia (INGV), Italy; Istituto Nazionale di Geofisica e Vulcanologia (INGV), Italy; Istituto Nazionale di Geofisica e Vulcanologia (INGV), Italy; Istituto Nazionale di Geofisica e Vulcanologia (INGV), Italy
Abstract: Game is a powerful educational tool to involve students and keep their attention high, promoting cognitive development, discovery, reasoning, and thinking. It is also an effective gamy-learning and active learning strategy to consolidate the acquired knowledge and carry out an authentic assessment through reality tasks. The immediate feedback, typical of the use of the digital games, favors the flow of the adventure computer game and engages students.
In the framework of “TROPOMAG: Influence of geomagnetic storms on the TROPOsphere dynamics: Can the Earth’s MAGnetic field be considered a proxy of climate changes?”, an institutional project of the Environment Department of the Istituto Nazionale di Geofisica e Vulcanologia (INGV), the Geoquest TROPOMAG digital game has been developed and tested and an integrated table game is in progress. The Geoquest TROPOMAG game engages students from Middle Schools (ISCDE 2) and High Schools (ISCDE 3) in class sessions which stimulate curiosity and desire to learn more about the connection between solar activity, geomagnetic storms and climate changes. The virtual adventure path is played with smartphones and follows alternative paths chosen by the players to develop the storytelling through audio, images, and videos on the multidisciplinary TROPOMAG topics: Artificial satellites, Earth’s atmosphere, Geomagnetic storms, Geomagnetism, Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS), Ionosphere, Polar aurorae, Pollution from volcanoes, Solar radiation, Solar system, Solar wind, Sun, Troposphere and Precipitable Water Vapor. The table game is thought to be a complementary version of the digital game, that can be played in small classroom groups.
Author(s): Maximilian-Vlad Teodorescu
Institute of Space Science
Abstract: On May 11, 2024, a historic event occurred: a powerful display of the polar Aurora. So powerful in fact, that it was seen with the naked eye at 20 degrees S of latitude, in Africa. The polar lights illuminated the night sky over Europe with their red color for hours.
The source of this extremely rare aurora display was sunspot AR3446, a giant sunspot of Solar Cycle 25, which erupted several times, with M and X-class flares hurling 5 CMEs towards our planet. The size of this sunspot could be compared to the one responsible for the Carrington Event back in 1859. The arrival of the May 2024 CMEs at Earth sparked the biggest geomagnetic storm in the last 20 years, a class G5 event (Kp index went high at 9 for several hours!).
The Aurora was observed by many in Europe and Romania, with a small team from the Institute of Space Science travelling close to Bucharest, Romania, in order to photograph it. Some of the images, with specific processing are presented, as are images of the giant and complex sunspot group 3664, imaged from the Solar Observatory at the Institute of Space Science.