Speaker
Description
The Space Physics Group at the University of L’Aquila conducts advanced research on Sun–Earth coupling processes within the magnetosphere–ionosphere–thermosphere (MIT) system, with particular attention to phenomena that directly affect technological infrastructures and space-based services.
A core research line focuses on the formation and evolution of high-latitude ionospheric irregularities—structured plasma disturbances generated by solar-wind–magnetosphere interactions that significantly degrade GNSS signal propagation and positioning accuracy. In parallel, the group has developed the MA.I.GIC. model, a quantitative framework for assessing geomagnetically induced currents (GICs) during geomagnetic storms. A distinctive feature of this model is its capability to separate magnetospheric and ionospheric current contributions, thereby enhancing risk evaluation and mitigation strategies for power-grid systems.
The group also advances physics-informed neural-network methodologies to model thermospheric mass-density variability under disturbed geomagnetic conditions. This approach addresses a critical operational challenge: improving satellite drag forecasting during periods of elevated solar activity.
In addition, magnetospheric plasma dynamics are investigated through remote sensing of field-line resonances using ground-based magnetometer arrays. This technique enables reconstruction of plasmaspheric mass-density variations and supports the assessment of their impact on radiation-belt dynamics and GNSS system performance.
Collectively, these research activities provide an integrated and physically consistent framework for understanding and modelling geospace variability, contributing both to fundamental scientific progress and to the development of robust space-weather operational capabilities.
| Numerical model | S.W.A.P. |
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