Entry requirements

Mechanics MN1, Mathematical methods of physics NV1. Electromagnetic field theory. Plasma physics is recommended.

Learning outcomes

On completion of the course, the student should be able to:

- describe the plasma environments in the solar system in terms of geographical extension as well as physical properties and processes , including typical plasma regions in and around magnetospheres

- explain how the properties of some important solar system plasma populations are determined by their sources and environment, and how these properties may vary between the planets

- use the concept of frozen-in magnetic fields, and determine the validity of the concept in a given situation

- compute basic radio propagation paths in the ionosphere

- assess risks for space weather perturbations, on the magnetosphere and on man-made systems, based on data on the sun and the solar wind, and using an understanding of geomagnetic storms and substorms

- assess the launch capacity of rockets

- use orbital parameters for satellite orbits, and plan basic manoeuvres for change of spacecraft trajectories

- calculate the temperature and electric potential of a spacecraft from given plasma parameters

Content

Existence of plasma in space, magnetic fields in space. Solar radiation, solar atmosphere, solar activity, solar wind, heliosphere, solar sails. Motion of charged particles in magnetic fields. The magnetospheres, radiation belts, ionospheres and plasmaspheres of the Earth and other celestial bodies. Shock waves and boundary layers, the cellular structure of space. The dynamics of the space plasma in magnetohydrodynamics (MHD) and two-fluid theory. Waves in an unmagnetised plasma, radio wave propagation, electrostatic waves, magnetohydrodynamic waves, energy transport, instabilities and damping, particle acceleration. Dynamics of the magnetosphere, substorms and space weather. Currents in magnetosphere-ionosphere systems, aurora, magnetic storms. Rocket principle, motion in a central force field, satellite orbits, interplanetary orbits. Electrical and thermal interaction of spacecraft with the local environment. Ion engines.

Instruction

Lectures and Lessons

Assessment

Two written examinations during the course. Compulsory assignments may also occur.

If there are special reasons for doing so, an examiner may make an exception from the method of assessment indicated and allow a student to be assessed by another method. An example of special reasons might be a certificate regarding special pedagogical support from the disability coordinator of the university.