The application of heliospheric imaging to space weather operations: Lessons learned from published studies. Issue 8 (31st August 2017)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Harrison, Richard A.; Davies, Jackie A.; Biesecker, Doug; Gibbs, Mark
• Is Part Of: Space weather. Volume 15:Issue 8(2017:Aug.)
• Page Start: 985
• Page End: 1003
• Publication Date: 2017-08-31
• Subjects: coronal mass ejection -- heliospheric imaging -- space weather operations; Space environment -- Periodicals; 551.509992
• DOI: 10.1002/2017SW001633
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1542-7390

Abstract

Abstract: The field of heliospheric imaging has matured significantly over the last 10 years—corresponding, in particular, to the launch of NASA's STEREO mission and the successful operation of the heliospheric imager (HI) instruments thereon. In parallel, this decade has borne witness to a marked increase in concern over the potentially damaging effects of space weather on space and ground‐based technological assets, and the corresponding potential threat to human health, such that it is now under serious consideration at governmental level in many countries worldwide. Hence, in a political climate that recognizes the pressing need for enhanced operational space weather monitoring capabilities most appropriately stationed, it is widely accepted, at the Lagrangian L1 and L5 points, it is timely to assess the value of heliospheric imaging observations in the context of space weather operations. To this end, we review a cross section of the scientific analyses that have exploited heliospheric imagery—particularly from STEREO/HI—and discuss their relevance to operational predictions of, in particular, coronal mass ejection (CME) arrival at Earth and elsewhere. We believe that the potential benefit of heliospheric images to the provision of accurate CME arrival predictions on an operational basis, although as yet not fully realized, is significant and we assert that heliospheric imagery is central to any credible space weather mission, particularly one located at a vantage point off the Sun‐Earth line. Key Points: Review of heliospheric imaging Assessment of the current status of the analysis of heliospheric imagery in the context of operational space weather forecasting Suggestions for future improvements in the exploitation of heliospheric imagery for space weather operations