The Causes and Consequences of Space Weather

Semar given at the Dublin Institute for Advanced Studies (DIAS) Geophysics Section on Friday, February  14, 2014. 

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, I 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.