14 February 2014 – Seminar

Details

When: 16:00 on Friday, 14 February 2014
Where: DIAS, Geophysics Section, 5 Merrion Square, Dublin 2, (library)

Speaker: Prof. Peter Gallagher (Astrophysics Research Group, Trinity College Dublin )
Title: The causes and consequences of space weather

Abstract:

Solar storms are large-scale eruptions of hot gas and magnetic field from the lower atmosphere of the Sun. If launched towards Earth, solar storms can reach our planet in as little as 18 hours, producing spectacular auroral displays at high terrestrial latitudes. In addition, large solar storms can cause interruptions in radio-based communications systems, GPS signals, and disrupt electrical power transmission networks. In this talk, Prof. Gallagher will review our understanding of the causes and effects of space weather, and describe steps being taken nationally and internationally to monitor and forecast space weather.