Comparing ADAPT-WSA Model Predictions With EUV And Solar Wind Observations
Abstract
Global estimates of the solar photospheric magnetic field distribution are critical for space weather forecasting. These global maps are the essential data input for accurate modeling of the corona and solar wind, which is vital for gaining the basic understanding necessary to improve forecasting models needed for Air Force operations. We are now testing the global photospheric field maps generated by the A</u>ir Force D</u>ata A</u>ssimilative P</u>hotospheric flux T</u>ransport (ADAPT) model as input to the WSA coronal and solar wind model. ADAPT incorporates the Los Alamos National Laboratory data assimilation methodology with a modified version of the Worden and Harvey photospheric magnetic flux transport model. The ADAPT maps provide a more instantaneous snapshot of the global photospheric field distribution compared to traditional synoptic maps. In this presentation, we make a detailed comparison of WSA coronal and solar wind model output with STEREO EUVI disk observations and in situ plasma observations from the STEREO and ACE spacecraft. The current orbital configuration of the two STEREO spacecraft is such that they provide a nearly instantaneous global snapshot of the Sun's coronal hole distribution. In addition, the STEREO observations along with those from the ACE spacecraft provide three widely spaced ecliptic locations at 1 AU to sample the solar wind plasma. In combination, these differing observations from multiple spacecraft provide a unique and highly sensitive test of the ability of the WSA model to capture the global coronal hole and solar wind structure. This is done using both ADAPT and standard updated photospheric field maps as input to the model.
- Publication:
-
AAS/Solar Physics Division Abstracts #42
- Pub Date:
- May 2011
- Bibcode:
- 2011SPD....42.2403A