Solar physics at APL

Solar research at APL aims to understand the fundamental physics that gover n solar activity. The tools are telescopes, models, and interplanetary samp ling of solar ejecta. The work is relevant to APL's mission because solar e nergetic protons disable satellites and endanger astronauts. Solar activity also causes geomagnetic storms, which can lead to communications disruptio ns, electric pourer network problems, satellite orbit shifts and, sometimes , satellite failure. Predicting storm conditions requires understanding sol ar magnetism and its fluctuations. APL scientists have made major contribut ions to solar activity research and have taken the lead in developing a var iety of new solar research tools. They are now starting work on the Solar T errestrial Relations Observatory, a major space mission.