Physics, Forecaster, Machine: The Race For Successful Space Weather Forecasts

In recent years machine learning techniques have been applied to a variety of solar transient event prediction problems, from forecasting the likelihood of flares, coronal mass ejections and solar energetic particles, to predictions of the resulting event characteristics. However, surprisingly few machine learning applications are currently used in real-time forecast operations. Why is that? I this talk I will discuss some of the challenges machine learning forecast models face in development, validation, and transition to operations; areas where machine learning applications could prove useful for forecasters; and considerations for a smoother path from research to operations.