The origin of mysterious magnetic waves in the ionosphere

Overview: This data-driven project will measure, model and predict occurrence of ionospheric magnetic signals at high frequencies. The project will be based on data from European and Chinese satellites and will use techniques including machine learning to analyse the near space environment and the dynamics of Earth’s ionosphere and magnetosphere.

Background

The geomagnetic field is a fundamental component of Earth. Wrapping around our planet like an invisible force-field, it protects life from harmful solar radiation and influences the impacts of space weather on modern technologies, such as satellites and electrical power grids. The European Space Agency Swarm satellites carry a novel sensor called the Absolute Scalar Magnetometer (ASM) which can operate in a high-frequency 250Hz ‘burst mode’, allowing us to investigate ionospheric signals in the band 0-125Hz. These signals are shaped by complex interactions between atmospheric and magnetospheric processes, giving rise to a variety of electromagnetic phenomena. Well-known examples include lightning-induced ‘whistlers’, magnetospheric transverse waves, and signals associated with local plasma depletions. There however remain undiscovered and unmodelled processes within the ionosphere. Analysis of ASM burst-mode data in the frequency–time domain has revealed numerous previously unreported features (e.g., see: https://doi.org/10.1051/swsc/2025028). The China Space Agency CSES and Macau MSS-1 missions carry similar instruments but their data has not presently been analysed.

Objectives

1. To map the signal’s occurrences both in terms of magnetic field strength, observations of location and investigate the origins of these novel signals
2. To use data-driven machine learning, such as Convolutional Neural Networks, Echo State Networks and Transformer models to automatically detect and classify the signals in new datasets.
3. To characterise the mysterious signals’ properties through analyses of the data alongside auxiliary datasets and ground magnetic observations
4. To advance our understanding of electromagnetic processes in near-Earth space and the potential impact within the ionosphere to low Earth orbiting spacecraft, such as via enhanced satellite drag and disrupted communications

Requirements

We seek a highly motivated candidate with a strong background in mathematics, physics, computation, geophysics or another highly numerate discipline.  Knowledge of geomagnetism is not required.

Training

The student will be trained in geomagnetic analysis of measurements from satellites and will take relevant undergraduate or masters level courses. They will also have access to a broad spectrum of training workshops at Leeds that include techniques in numerical modelling, through to managing your degree and preparing for your viva.  The student will undertake an extended visit to the British Geological Survey during their studies, and benefit from the strong portfolio of international collaborators of the supervisors, which includes the Macau-mission scientists.  There will also be opportunities to attend conferences and collaborative visits both within Europe and internationally. In addition, IOTA Technology will partner giving the student the opportunity to work as a three month placement with a UK-based company who build and launch cubesats for measuring Earth’s magnetic field.