Recent geomagnetic storms observed by Macau Science Satellite-1

Abstract

Geomagnetic storms are rapid disturbances of the Earth’s magnetosphere. They are related to many geophysical phenomena and have large influences on human activities. Observing and studying geomagnetic storms is thus of great significance to both scientific research and geomagnetic hazards prevention. The Macau Science Satellite-1 (MSS-1) project includes two high-precision Chinese geomagnetic satellites successfully launched on May 21, 2023. The main purpose of MSS-1 is to accurately measure the Earth’s magnetic field. Here, we analyze early MSS-1 geomagnetic field measurements and report observations of two recent geomagnetic storms that occurred on March 24, 2024 and May 11, 2024. We also calculate the related geoelectric fields as an initial step towards a quantitative assessment of geomagnetic hazards.

Keywords

• macau science satellite-1
• geomagnetic storms
• satellite magnetics
• electromagnetic induction
• geoelectric fields