MEM 4643 Space Environment 3.0 Credits
This course examines the Sun's influence on Earth's space environment and its effects on spacecraft and ground systems. Topics include solar activity (flares, coronal mass ejections, sunspots), the solar wind and interplanetary magnetic field, Earth's magnetosphere (magnetotail, magnetopause, bow shock, radiation belts), magnetic reconnection, geomagnetic storms, auroral substorms, and aurorae. The course covers practical impacts including spacecraft charging, atmospheric drag, geomagnetically induced currents, and effects on communication, navigation, and power systems.
Repeat Status: Not repeatable for credit
Prerequisites: PHYS 1202 [Min Grade: D] or PHYS 201 [Min Grade: D]