Global landscape of space weather observations, research and operations

Abstract

The recognition of space weather hazards is increasingly growing, highlighting the importance of monitoring and forecasting it. High precision satellite positioning techniques have become essential in various areas of social and economic infrastructure. However, it is well-known that Global Navigation Satellite Systems (GNSS) can be affected by space weather-induced ionospheric variations. This poses a challenge as it can impact the reliability and accuracy of GNSS-based systems. Space weather phenomena can also have significant effects on aviation systems and electric power grids. Given that many of these phenomena occur on a global scale, it is crucial to have a comprehensive monitoring and observation network. Currently, numerous ground-based observations are managed by local government or academic bodies. In contrast, space-based observations are typically operated by space agencies, often necessitating international coordinated collaboration to undertake significant projects in this field. The paper puts a strong emphasis on the need for collaboration between various entities in each nation and between national programmes. In this paper, the authors provide an overview of the international landscape for space weather research and operations at the nation-state level. They also highlight the activities of various national and regional space agencies involved in space weather research and monitoring for enhancing our capabilities in monitoring, forecasting, and mitigating the impacts of space weather phenomena on critical infrastructure and systems.