Solar Activity and the Terrestrial Ring Current

Abstract:

We will discuss about the evolution and intensity of the Terrestrial Ring Current (TRC) in association with the variability of solar activity during the solar cycle phases. This will involve the response of the TRC to solar active regions, as main sources for ICMEs, and to coronal holes as sources of high speed streams, and to the combination of both. Also, we will try to include in our discussion the complex issues regarding the response of the TRC to extreme solar activity and the meaning of the Dst index as a monitor of “TRC intensification” during large magnetotail current intensifications.