We are increasingly dependent on orbiting technological systems for vital services such as navigation, communication and surveillance. One of the main hazards to these systems over their lifetime is the highly changeable and unpredictable radiation environment in which they are immersed, frequently called 'space weather'. Near-Earth space weather is driven by the behaviour of the Sun and the often-violent activity within its outer atmosphere, the corona. Normally the Sun emits a continuous solar wind, which is deflected around the Earth by its magnetic field. However, in current 'Solar-maximum' conditions regular solar eruptions emit vast quantities of super-heated gas at great speed - if they come towards us, a major disruption of the Earth's magnetic field can result, weakening its protective effect and allowing surges of radiation to enter within its confines. Satellites are then at risk and can suffer upset and damage to their electronics and computers. Astronauts too, and even high flying aircraft, need to be wary in such conditions. This lecture, aimed at a general audience, will present some of the most interesting aspects of space weather and explain their importance for current and future space systems.
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Keith Ryden is a Principal Scientist in the Space Department, Defence Evaluation & Research Agency, Farnborough. He graduated from the University of Bath and then completed an MSc in Satellite Engineering at the University of Surrey. Since joining DERA (formally RAE) in 1986 he has worked on ion propulsion, microsatellites, military communications satellites and is currently leading a research programme on behalf of the MOD to investigate hazards to spacecraft. Over many years, he has taken a particular interest in space environmental effects and electrostatic discharge issues in particular. Keith is a Chartered Engineer and a Member of the IEE.
No tickets required and visitors are welcome
This Lecture has been organised by the Royal Aeronautical Society's Space Group and will be held in the Society's Lecture Theatre commencing at 18:00 hrs.
Contact: Conference Department, RAeS, 4 Hamilton Place, London, W1J 7BQ
Tel: 020 7670 4300 Fax: 020 7670 4349. Email: space@aerosociety.com