Radio observatories and instrumentation used in space weather science and operations

2020

Self Cite

Coronal mass ejections (CMEs) are large eruptions of plasma and magnetic field from the low solar corona into the heliosphere. These eruptions are often associated with energetic electrons that produce various kinds of radio emission. However, there is ongoing investigation into exactly where, when, and how the electron acceleration occurs during flaring and eruption, and how the associated radio emission can be exploited as a diagnostic of both particle acceleration and CME eruptive physics. Here, we review past and present developments in radio observations of flaring and eruption, from the destabilization of flux ropes to the development of a CME and the eventual driving of shocks in the corona. We concentrate primarily on the progress made in CME radio physics in the past two decades and show how radio imaging spectroscopy provides the ability to diagnose the locations and kinds of electron acceleration during eruption, which provides insight into CME eruptive models in the early stages of their evolution ( < 10 R ⊙ ). We finally discuss how new instrumentation in the radio domain will pave the way for a deeper understanding of CME physics in the near future.

Section: Discussionmentioning

confidence: 99%

Section: Introductionmentioning

confidence: 99%

Radio Observations of Coronal Mass Ejection Initiation and Development in the Low Solar Corona

Carley

Vilmer

2020

Self Cite

“…Radio spectroscopy can play an important role in this area by tracking interplanetary shocks in the kHz-MHz range or probing CME magnetic fields via Faraday rotation measurements (e.g., Vourlidas et al, 2020b). Carley et al (2020) reviews extensively the SWx-related radio infrastructure upgrades under way. Finally, stereoscopic EUV imaging with vector magnetic field measurements of Earthfacing active regions can provide strong (and possibly early) constrains of the erupted field strength and configuration by comparing before after magnetic field extrapolations and stereoscopy, as discussed in Schrijver et al (2015).…”

Section: Path Forwardmentioning

confidence: 99%

Improving the Medium-Term Forecasting of Space Weather: A Big Picture Review From a Solar Observer's Perspective

2021

We have improved considerably our scientific understanding of the key solar drivers of Space Weather, i.e., Coronal Mass Ejections, flares, in the last 20+ years thanks to a plethora of space missions and modeling advances. Yet, a major breakthrough in assessing the geo-effectiveness of a given CME and associated phenomena still escapes us, holding back actionable medium-term (up to 7 days) forecasting of Space Weather. Why is that? I adopt a two-pronged approach to search for answers. First, I assess the last 20+ years of research on solar drivers by identifying lessons-learned and paradigm shifts in our view of solar activity, always in relation to Space Weather concerns. Then, I review the state of key observation-based quantities used in forecasting to isolate the choke points and research gaps that limit medium-term forecasting performance. Finally, I outline a path forward along three vectors—breakthrough capabilities, geo-effective potential, and actionable forecast—with the strongest potential to improve space weather forecasting horizon and robustness.

“…Studies are currently under way to assess the requirements of modern instrumentation in observing FR, particularly at low radio frequencies where the ionosphere can contribute to the rotation measure significantly (Figure 5). A new project known as LOFAR for Space Weather (LOFAR4SW; Carley et al, 2020a) is a design study to upgrade the entire LOFAR system such that it provides routine observation of the Sun, heliosphere, and ionosphere from a space weather science and operations perspective. The upgraded system aims to perform daily imaging spectroscopy of the Sun, including imaging of the radio activity during the early phases of solar eruptions, as well as IPS and FR observations of the solar wind and CMEs propagating throughout the heliosphere.…”

Section: Future Radio Instrumentation Relevant To Cme Spwx Studiesmentioning

confidence: 99%

“…Careful design and planning of SpWx-specific observing programs will maximize the SpWx benefit of radio observations. The LOFAR4SW project mentioned above is an example (Carley et al, 2020a). It comprises a set of observing programs for diverse targets, such as CME Faraday rotation studies, multi-spectral imaging or IPS observations.…”

Section: Considerations For Moving Forwardmentioning

confidence: 99%

Radio Observations of Coronal Mass Ejections: Space Weather Aspects

Carley

Vilmer

2020

Self Cite

We review the current state-of-affairs in radio observations of Coronal Mass Ejections (CMEs) from a Space Weather perspective. In particular, we examine the role of radio observations in predicting or presaging an eruption, in capturing the formation stages of the CME, and in following the CME evolution in the corona and heliosphere. We then look to the future and identify capabilities and research areas where radio observations-particularly, spectropolarimetric imaging-offer unique advantages for Space Weather research on CMEs. We close with a discussion of open issues and possible strategies for enhancing the relevance and importance of radio astronomy for Space Weather science.