Abstract:
Energetic electron precipitation can significantly affect Earth’s atmospheric chemistry by generating ozone-depleting NOx and HOx compounds. Accurately monitoring these precipitation events is crucial for understanding their drivers and for assessing their potential atmospheric impacts. In this talk, I present high-resolution measurements of energetic electron precipitation (EEP) captured by a novel Timepix-based radiation detector flown on a weather balloon during the May 2024 superstorm. This low-cost, low-power payload detected storm-time Bremsstrahlung X-rays at 33 km altitude, revealing a striking four-peak structure in the X-ray flux. These bursts correlated with ground-based riometer absorption, satellite observations of modulated trapped electrons, and chorus wave enhancements, consistent with Pc5 ULF wave-driven precipitation. The success of this student-led flight highlights the potential of Timepix-based detectors for future space weather monitoring on balloons, aircraft, or spacecraft, some of which I will highlight at the end of my talk.
The Physics Frontiers Centers (PFC) program supports university-based centers and institutes where the collective efforts of a larger group of individuals can enable transformational advances in the most promising research areas. The program is designed to foster major breakthroughs at the intellectual frontiers of physics by providing needed resources such as combinations of talents, skills, disciplines, and/or specialized infrastructure, not usually available to individual investigators or small groups, in an environment in which the collective efforts of the larger group can be shown to be seminal to promoting significant progress in the science and the education of students. PFCs also include creative, substantive activities aimed at enhancing education, broadening participation of traditionally underrepresented groups, and outreach to the scientific community and general public.