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Bulgarian scientists in Antarctica analyze solar activity and its impact on Earth

Ivaylo Nachev
Photo: Marina Velikova- BNR

Measurement equipment installed at the Bulgarian Antarctic base "St. Kliment Ohridski" has been collecting valuable data on solar activity and its relation to the Earth's magnetic field for two months. The research is part of Bulgaria's first polar astronomical project- "The Impact of Solar Activity on Ionospheric Dynamics and High-Energy Particle Fluxes Over Antarctica", led by Associate Professor Dr. Ivaylo Nachev from the Technical University of Sofia.


The project includes four main experiments. The first is aimed at measuring radio emissions caused by solar flares. Antarctica provides an exceptionally clean environment for such observations, as there are no local disturbers, such as communication technologies. This allows clear association of a particular radio signal with specific solar activity, explained the researcher.


The second experiment examines solar flares and their effect on the ionosphere. The equipment, developed at the Technical University, has been installed both in Bulgaria and on Livingston Island.

The third experiment is aimed at measuring changes in the Earth's magnetic field and their relation to solar activity.


The fourth experiment examines high-energy particles that enter the atmosphere during plasma or coronal mass ejections from the Sun.

The data will assist scientific research on the relationship between the Earth's magnetic field and solar activity, as well as provide new insights into geomagnetic storms.Subsequently,   the published results will allow other scientists to analyze the relationship between solar activity, geomagnetic storms and their impact on human health.


Photos: Marina Velikova-BNR; BTA


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