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Space Particles: Impact on the Earth's Atmosphere

Details

  • Call:

    IDPASC Portugal - PHD Programme 2017

  • Academic Year:

    2017 / 2018

  • Domains:

    Astrophysics | Astroparticle Physics

  • Supervisor:

    Ilidio Lopes

  • Co-Supervisor:

  • Institution:

    Universidade de Évora

  • Host Institution:

    Instituto Superior Técnico

  • Abstract:

    A recently discovered phenomena described by solar dimming and increased brightness [1] describes the increase and reduction of the solar energy arriving at the Earth’s surface. Due to its importance this phenomena is receiving considerable attention. Though most of the explanations tend to relate it with anthropogenic activity, such as pollution, solar energetic particles (SEP) and cosmic rays seem also to contribute for this phenomena. It is known that solar radiation almost does not change with the solar cycle magnetic activity and for that reason solar activity has for long been discarded as a possible explanation. Nevertheless, recent observations tend to relate periods of solar dimming and increased brightening in Portugal with sunspot areas. This reinforces the possible solar-earth link in which the cosmic rays' penetration into Earth plays a substantial role [2,3]. In this work the candidate will work with top researchers in the field and explore this mysterious link between our planet and our star. We are looking for highly motivated and dedicated PhD candidates. Supervisors: Hugo Silva (U. Evora) e Ilidio Lopes (IST) [1] Rethinking solar resource assessments in the context of global dimming and brightening, B. Mu?ller, M. Wild, A. Driesse, and K. Behrens, Solar Energy 99, 272 (2014); [2] Phase-Space representation of Neutron Monitor Count Rate and Atmospheric Electric Field in relation to Solar Activity in Cycles 21 and 22, H.G. Silva and I. Lopes, Earth, Planets and Space 68, 119 (2016); DOI: 10.1186/s40623-016-0504-3 [3] Rieger-type Periodicities on the Sun and the Earth during Solar Cycles 21 and 22, H.G. Silva and I. Lopes, Astrophysics and Space Science 362, 44 (2017); DOI:10.1007/s10509-017-3020-4