9:00 AM - 9:15 AM
[PEM15-01] Large-scale research project "Study of coupling processes in the solar-terrestrial system"
Keywords:Equatorial MU radar, EISCAT_3D radar, next-generation solar wind observation system, International observation network, IUGONET
The Earth receives energy from the Sun by radiation and by the solar wind (the flow of high-speed particles) and balances the energy by emitting infrared radiation. The material exchange between the Earth and surrounding space exists. We aim to unify and quantitatively understand the coupling processes of the solar-terrestrial system. Combining space plasma physics and the Earth’s atmospheric and hydrosphere science, we study the vast area as one complex system. It is to contribute to space utilization and to enhance the prediction of space and atmospheric changes. We need to pursue observations, theory, and simulations to accomplish the studies. In this research program, we develop an observation system that measures the entire region of the solar wind, electromagnetic plasma, and atmosphere. More specifically, we set the following five research topics, plan the development of observation equipment, and promote the plan.
(1) Equatorial fountain
The energy and material flows that occur in all height regions of the equatorial atmosphere are named as "Equatorial Fountain." These processes from the bottom also cause various effects in the upper atmosphere. We establish Equatorial MU Rdar (EMU radar) in Indonesia as main instrument for the studies.
(2) Energy inputs into polar upper atmosphere and its response
The energy/particle inflow results in auroral Joule heating and ion drag of the atmosphere. The ion outflow from the polar ionosphere controls ambient plasma constituents in the magnetosphere. We will contribute the international EISCAT_3D radar project that has started in northern Scandinavia since 2017.
(3) Solar wind propagation process
In order to clarify the acceleration and propagation processes of the solar wind from the sun and to accurately predict its impact on the Earth, we develop a next-generation solar wind observation system and start observations. Clarifying the solar wind acceleration mechanism and dramatically improving the prediction accuracy of the scale and arrival time of the solar wind affecting the Earth.
(4) Global network of observation and data
We develop a global observation network of compact radio and optical remote sensing equipment from the equator to polar region.
(5) Integrated analysis of observational data centered on IUGONET
The data from the above observations are accumulated in the data-sharing system (IUGONET). A comprehensive analysis of the coupling process of the solar-terrestrial system will be conducted through the construction of an integrated database and analysis system that links domestic and international satellite missions and numerical models.
For this project, budget requests are made from each research institute. It is also a priority large-scale research project in Master Plan 2014/2017/2020. It is currently being proposed to the Science Council of Japan's Future Science Promotion Concept. It will also be proposed in Roadmap 2023 by the Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science, and Technology.
(1) Equatorial fountain
The energy and material flows that occur in all height regions of the equatorial atmosphere are named as "Equatorial Fountain." These processes from the bottom also cause various effects in the upper atmosphere. We establish Equatorial MU Rdar (EMU radar) in Indonesia as main instrument for the studies.
(2) Energy inputs into polar upper atmosphere and its response
The energy/particle inflow results in auroral Joule heating and ion drag of the atmosphere. The ion outflow from the polar ionosphere controls ambient plasma constituents in the magnetosphere. We will contribute the international EISCAT_3D radar project that has started in northern Scandinavia since 2017.
(3) Solar wind propagation process
In order to clarify the acceleration and propagation processes of the solar wind from the sun and to accurately predict its impact on the Earth, we develop a next-generation solar wind observation system and start observations. Clarifying the solar wind acceleration mechanism and dramatically improving the prediction accuracy of the scale and arrival time of the solar wind affecting the Earth.
(4) Global network of observation and data
We develop a global observation network of compact radio and optical remote sensing equipment from the equator to polar region.
(5) Integrated analysis of observational data centered on IUGONET
The data from the above observations are accumulated in the data-sharing system (IUGONET). A comprehensive analysis of the coupling process of the solar-terrestrial system will be conducted through the construction of an integrated database and analysis system that links domestic and international satellite missions and numerical models.
For this project, budget requests are made from each research institute. It is also a priority large-scale research project in Master Plan 2014/2017/2020. It is currently being proposed to the Science Council of Japan's Future Science Promotion Concept. It will also be proposed in Roadmap 2023 by the Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science, and Technology.