Space Weather: A Modern Hazard to Technology

Talk by Dr Alan Thomson, Head of Geomagnetism, British Geological Survey.

Space Weather describes the variability in the near-Earth space environment that is caused by magnetic activity in the Sun and in the solar wind. Geomagnetic storms, resulting from space weather, can influence the operation and reliability of both space-borne and ground-based technological systems and infrastructure. In this talk I will introduce space weather and its relation to the Aurora Borealis. I will highlight geomagnetic storms of historical interest and I will describe space weather impacts on various modern day technological systems, emphasising the effects at ground level and how science helps industry mitigate the risk.

Visitors are welcome at our meetings, but because of the popularity of our talks, visitors must register for a free ticket as visitor spaces are limited. Visitors can also leave after the main talk or are welcome to stay on for the rest of the meeting. Tickets will go live 1 month before the event.Also at our meetings:

• What’s in the night sky this month
• Overview of astronomy and space news
• Occasional member presentations