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| | | | | | | SOHO data used for real-time space radiation forecasting
13 February 2008
| This is a series of images of the one-million-degree solar corona in the extreme ultraviolet taken by the SOHO’s Extreme ultraviolet Imaging Telescope (EIT) in November 2003.
In the first panel, hazardous solar activity is only minutes away. Another SOHO instrument, the Comprehensive Suprathermal and Energetic Particle Analyzer (COSTEP), monitors space for electrons from the Sun.
In the second panel, a solar flare indicates the presence of ionising radiation on the Sun. This event sets free light-speed electrons that hurtle toward Earth. At the same time, COSTEP measured electrons arriving in our planet’s neighborhood. Such fast electrons are the first sign of possibly severe particle storms.
Tens of minutes later, a major solar ion event unfolded at Earth. This can be seen in the third panel. Human explorers and spacecraft systems are particularly susceptible to ionising radiation. Energetic protons hit the sensitive charge-coupled devices (CCDs) of the EIT, resulting in a “snowstorm” effect. Humans in space would need protection at this time.
Note: The third image has been enhanced for emphasis.
Individual images that make up the composite are available below:
Image1.jpg, Image2.jpg, Image3.jpg
Credits: ESA/NASA/SOHO | |  |  | |
| | | | | This is a composite image of the inner solar system showing the effect of an extreme solar event.
In the first panel, the light and electrons from solar activity reach Earth. Fast electrons and the slower ions follow magnetic lines of force.
A newly discovered method now allows explorers to use the electron ‘signal’ for their safety. In this situation, the arrival of hazardous radiation is imminent.
As the hazardous ions arrive, typically tens of minutes later, human explorers on the moon or on the way to Mars would have sought their own protection. Equipped with a warning system, this method can, in extreme cases, prevent a mission-threatening health condition: Acute Radiation Syndrome.
The individual images of the composite are available below:
Illust1.jpg, Illust2.jpg
Credits: Southwest Research Institute | | | | |
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