Investigations on the Variations of Space Weather and Correlation Analysis with the GOCE Gradiometer Measurements

English Abstract:

It is known that extreme variations in space weather and corresponding geomagnetic storms can affect satellite communication systems, disrupt electrical systems, damage hardware onboard the satellites and most importantly disturb the satellite measurements in an unusual way. In this study, we investigate the unexpected disturbances present in GOCE (Gravity Field and Steady-State Ocean Circulation Explorer) mission derived gravity gradients along the satellite track over the magnetic poles and its possible correlation with the magnetic storms occurred within the same time period. The interplanetary magnetic field and plasma flow velocity along with electric field data observed by the solar satellites ACE (Advanced Composition Explorer) and WIND are obtained from OMNI Website. Moreover, magnetic activity observations collected at CARISMA (Canadian Array for Real-time Investigations of Magnetic Activity) stations are included in our investigations for the comparison purposes. It is found that the CARISMA data are capable of monitoring the magnetic activity variations and agree well with the ACE and WIND observed datasets and can be useful for correcting GOCE mission gradiometer measurements due to their high resolution. By using these external and independent data we aim to understand the correlation between the disturbances observed in the GOCE gravity gradients and solar activity and eventually eliminate these effects from the gradiometer measurements.