Predicting space weather and getting an accurate assessment of the impact on ground and space infrastructure and our lives

Learn more about space weather!

Space weather is a phenomenon in the space environment that varies in response to solar activity. Large explosions on the surface of the sun can cause large-scale space environmental disturbances around the Earth, affecting society and life. For example, there is concern that increases in high-energy particles, large ionospheric disturbances, and fluctuations in atmospheric density could cause satellite malfunctions, reduce the accuracy of global positioning systems, and affect satellite orbital altitude.

More accurate space weather forecasts

Research in the field of heliospheric system science (Field of solar science, solar-terrestrial and planetary system science) based on heliospheric coordinated observations by the Heliospheric Science Center, using the Space Solar Observatory 'Hinode', the Geospace Explorer ‘Arase', the Mercury Magnetospheric Orbiter 'Mio', and the High Sensitivity Solar Ultraviolet Spectroscopic Observation Satellite ‘SOLAR-C' (under development), will be responsible for heliospheric system science in the 2020s. Disclosure of higher-order data processes and data will enhance understanding of space weather phenomena, elucidate the dynamics of the space environment, and improve the accuracy of space weather forecasts. Improving space weather forecasts is necessary to reduce impacts on ground and space infrastructure and to support a sustainable society by enabling the stable use of space.

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  By improving understanding of space weather phenomena through satellite and probe observations, ground-based observations, numerical simulations, and related techniques, we will contribute to the construction of resilient infrastructure by enhancing the accuracy of space weather forecasts.
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  By providing basic information on space weather phenomena through comprehensive observations and numerical simulations of the heliosphere, we will contribute to the realization of inclusive, safe, resilient, and sustainable urban and human settlements. By deepening our understanding of the global environmental impacts of space environmental change, we will contribute to the prompt recognition of climate change affecting the entire planet and to the formulation of measures to mitigate its impacts.
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  By deepening our understanding of the global environmental impact of space environmental change, we will contribute to the prompt understanding of climate change that affects the entire planet and the formulation of measures to mitigate its impact.