[GIF, ~50
Kbytes][PPT, ~107 Kbytes]
George R. Davenport
While developing a Space Weather Training Program for Air Force Space Command and the 50th Weather Squadron, both based in Colorado, ARINC Incorporated produced a flowchart [figure 1] that correlates solar-terrestrial phenomena with their impacts on operational Air Force systems. Personnel from both organizations collaborated in the development of the flowchart and provided many comments and suggestions.
[GIF, ~50
Kbytes]
[PPT, ~107 Kbytes]
Fig. 1. Flowchart for the Space Environmental Impact Model showing complex relationships described in the model.
Although it is not a numerical or computer model, the accompanying flowchart became known as the "Space Environmental Impacts Model." Observable space environmental phenomena are identified within the boxes on the left side of the flowchart, and resulting impacts are shown on the right. Linkages enter the various boxes from the left or at the top, and they leave the boxes to the right or at the bottom. High-energy particles have energies of the order of tens to hundreds of MeV. Medium-energy particles have energies on the order of tens to hundreds of keV. Lower-energy solar wind particles have energies up to a few keV.
Each impact box references one or more operational system that can be affected by the impact. The model became the centerpiece of the Space Environment Impacts Reference Pamphlet as well as the formal Space Weather Training Program.
The Space Environmental Impacts Model pulls together, summarizes, and organizes the work of many researchers in a concise and consistent flowchart that presents a great deal of information in one place. Scientists and engineers have spent years, in some cases, entire careers, establishing and explaining the relationships and linkages that are represented by the lines that connect the boxes of the flowchart. The flowchart confirms the relevance of their work.
Copies of the model may be obtained from the author (e-mail address: gdavenpo@arinc.com).
George R. Davenport, ARINC Incorporated, Colorado Springs, Colo
Return to EES Contents