High-energy proton flux in polar regions, by Swarm

Each star tracker consists of three cameras pointing in different directions. These cameras are sensitive to ionising radiation: when an energetic particle hits the sensor, it appears as a white spot. Analysts have been able to produce data on particle fluxes, in particular detecting impacts from protons with energy levels of Megaelectronvolt (MeV), higher than 100 MeV.

This GIF shows the maximum flux value observed by each camera at a given timestamp. While the South Atlantic Anomaly (SAA) is the main source of penetrating ionising radiation, magnetic storms can lead to a temporary enhancement of high-energy particles (protons and electrons) in polar regions. These particles are injected into the magnetosphere and becoming trapped. 

Read full story: Swarm detects rare proton spike during solar storm