Mathematical errors of 50 years discovered in the study of radiation belts surrounding Earth
Published by Adrien,
Source: Journal of Geophysical Research: Space Physics
Other Languages: FR, DE, ES, PT
Source: Journal of Geophysical Research: Space Physics
Other Languages: FR, DE, ES, PT
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Greg Cunningham, a space scientist at Los Alamos National Laboratory, discovered errors in mathematical calculations that have been used for decades to understand the diffusion of electromagnetic waves and their impact on electrons trapped by Earth's magnetic fields. This breakthrough promises to improve the protection of space technologies against the harmful effects of radiation belts, whether natural or artificial (following the explosion of a nuclear charge).
The Van Allen belts, located around the Earth, represent a crucial area of study for understanding the effects of radiation on space technology. These natural belts, illustrated in yellow around the planet, are comparable to artificial belts that could form following high-altitude nuclear explosions. The red representation in the image indicates a high-intensity artificial belt, while the terms LEO/MEO/GEO designate different types of Earth orbits.
Credit: Los Alamos National Laboratory.
These radiation belts, known as the Van Allen belts, encircle the Earth and are crucial for understanding how trapped electrons can damage space equipment. Cunningham emphasizes the importance of these models in predicting potential threats to space technology and in developing effective remediation strategies for radiation belts.
The scientist became interested in errors in quasilinear theory, a fundamental approach to studying plasma turbulence and particle diffusion. By re-examining previous work based on this theory, he identified significant inaccuracies affecting the results of simulation models. These errors, overlooked because of the original authors' reputations, could lead to major differences in calculated diffusion rates.
The correction of these errors will allow researchers to review studies published over the past several decades and refine their understanding of spatial phenomena. This discovery was published in the Journal of Geophysical Research: Space Physics, marking an important milestone for the heliophysics community in improving the modeling of near-Earth space environments.
Protecting space assets from cosmic radiation and particles from the solar wind is essential for the sustainability of space exploration and exploitation. Cunningham's work contributes significantly to this mission, offering a stronger foundation for predicting and mitigating radiation-related risks in space.