MT3SWNU-Space Weather

Module Provider: Meteorology
Number of credits: 10 [5 ECTS credits]
Level:6
Semesters in which taught: Semester 2 module
Pre-requisites: MT24BNU Atmospheric Physics
Non-modular pre-requisites: Experience of using vector mathematics an advantage but not essential
Co-requisites:
Modules excluded:
Current from: 2023/4

Module Convenor: Prof Matt Owens
Email: m.j.owens@reading.ac.uk

NUIST Module Lead: Hua Zhang
Email: zhanghua12@nuist.edu.cn

Type of module:

Summary module description:

Understanding of the physics that leads to space weather hazards. Description of those hazards and the of the ways that are used to protect ourselves from the risks.

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Aims:

To develop an understanding of the near-Earth space environment and its variability and the hazards that it poses to astronauts, aviation, the satellite and power distribution industries and many others.

Assessable learning outcomes:

By the end of this module the student should be able to:

• Understand the basis of key theorems used to interpret and predict the behaviour of near-Earth space;


• Understand the origins of space weather disturbances;


• Have knowledge of space weather effects on modern systems and humans;


• Critically assess the effectiveness of methods and procedures to mitigate the risks.

Additional outcomes:

In addition students will:

• Learn and practice vector manipulation in the use of Maxwell’s equations;


• Have an understanding of plasmas: the fourth, and most ubiquitous state of matter in the cosmos;


• Gain knowledge of decadal-scale and centennial-scale solar change;


• Be introduced to the concept of the heliosphere and magnetosphere.

Outline content:

• Full lecture notes;


• A sheet listing key concepts;


• A sheet giving all key equations;


• One problem sheet with model answers;


• Problem sheets for assessment;


• Model answers to problem sheets (made available after marking in time for exam revision);


• Animations and images of space weather phenomena.

Subjects Covered:

• The Lorentz equation;


• The meaning of electric and magnetic fields;


• Maxwell’s equations of electromagnetism;


• The induction equation;


• The convective limit – the frozen-in flux theorem;


• Magnetic curvature force and magnetic pressure;


• The diffusive limit – magnetic reconnection;


• The solar corona and the solar wind;


• Parker spiral theory of the heliospheric magnetic field;


• Coronal mass ejections and solar energetic particles;


• Galactic cosmic rays;


• The magnetospheric cavity;


• Magnetospheric convection and substorms;


• Particle radiation effects on electronics;


• Particle radiation effects on living organisms;


• Induced currents and power grid disruption;


• Pipeline corrosion.

Brief description of teaching and learning methods:

Lectures, 1 unassessed problem sheet discussed in a problem class, 4 assessed problem sheets which will be discussed and reviewed in a problem class each after marking and in time for exam revision.