Space Physics – Physics of the space environment

• estimate the density and pressure in the upper atmosphere from basic principles
• derive basic equations describing formation of the ionosphere
• perform simple calculations of solar wind and interplanetary magnetic field propagation
• describe and estimate effects of the solar wind on planetary environment
• explain the circulation of plasma and magnetic field in the Earth’s magnetosphere and ionosphere
• calculate the motion of charged particles in the Earth’s magnetosphere, including the radiation belts
• use and exploit well-known theoretical and empirical models for the space environment
• analyze satellite data of solar winds that interact with the Earth’s magnetosphere.

Structure and dynamics of the upper atmosphere. Ionospheric formation, structure, and dynamics. Basic plasma fluid dynamics, including magnetohydrodynamics and ionospheric electrodynamics. Plasma waves. Solar activity and solar wind. Solar wind planetary interactions. Magnetospheric structure and dynamics. Single-particle motion in magnetic and electric fields. Aurora and radiation belts.

10033/10034/30400/31400/10036/02631/02632/02633

Lectures, exercise calculations, and model and data exercises.

Maximum: 20.

Please be aware that this course has a limited number of seats available. If there are too many applicants, a pool will be created for the remainder of the qualified applicants, and they will be selected at random. You will be informed 8 days before the start of the course, whether you have been allocated a spot.