Services for pipeline operators within the ESA space situational awareness space weather service network

摘要

As a result of time-varying magnetic fields occurring during a geomagnetic storm, significant electric currents (GICs) may be induced in pipelines whereby affecting the corrosion protection. Space weather data and products can be used to monitor and model the effects; forecasting severe magnetic storms, and providing retrospective geomagnetic data for analysis. In the frame of its Space Situational Awareness (SSA) programme, the European Space Agency (ESA) is establishing a Space Weather Service Network to support end-users, in a wide range of affected sectors, in mitigating the effects of space weather on their systems, reducing costs and improving reliability. This service network is currently in a testing and validation phase and encourages user engagement and feedback. Currently, the network is organised around a number of Expert Service Centers (ESCs) one of which is dedicated to Geomagnetic Conditions, a central Data Centre and the SSA Space weather Coordination Centre (SSCC). In this talk we present an overview of the current status of the network with a focus on the ESC for Geomagnetic Conditions and currently available products and tools. We are keen to gather feedback and requirements from end-users within the pipeline operator community in order to improve the network support capabilities and the tailoring of its services. All the products and tools within the service network are accessible through the SSA Space Weather Portal at http://swe.ssa.esa.int/.