2024/12/13 by Cafarella, Lili, Coco, Igino, De Michelis, Paola +3
#Circumterrestrial space #Meteorologia Spaziale #Sole #Space Weather #Spazio circumterrestre #Sun
paper · doi:10.13127/misc/90
This volume was created for National Space Day, on December 16, and is part of the activities to celebrate 25 years since the foundation of the Istituto Nazionale di Geofisica e Vulcanologia (INGV). This significant milestone invites us to reflect on the goals achieved in scientific research and the new challenges that await us, particularly in the field of Space Weather. Space Weather is one of the leading research areas of the INGV Environment Department, providing new perspectives on the phenomena of interaction between the Sun and the Earth. Often, when discussing space exploration, thoughts automatically turn to the major world powers and their respective space agencies. However, few are aware that Italy was among the first countries to break through the atmosphere and access space with the launch of the San Marco 1 satellite in 1964. In this context, the study of Space Weather takes on fundamental importance. The behavior of the Sun directly affects our planet, impacting satellite communication security, GPS functionality, and ground based infrastructures such as power lines and pipelines, that can be subject to geomagnetically induced currents related to strong geomagnetic storms. The articles selected for this volume have been published on the INGVambiente blog, and provide a comprehensive overview of these phenomena, illustrating their evolution and implications for our daily lives. From the Sun and its magnetic field to solar storms and their risks to terrestrial technologies, this volume addresses highly relevant scientific topics. This selection of articles not only celebrates INGV’s work but also raises public awareness about a topic at the heart of international research. On the occasion of National Space Day and INGV’s 25th anniversary, we aim to honor the tradition of excellence and innovation that characterizes our Institute, hoping that this volume will inspire an increased consciousness on the fundamental role of research in this field and its impact on everyday life.