Development of the Rice Convection Model as a Space Weather Tool.

摘要

We have successfully demonstrated that the Rice Convection Model (RCM) can provide a superior space-weather product. The work under this preliminary project consisted of a modest amount of code development and more extensive validation and testing. By varying relevant RCM input parameters for different model runs of the same event, and assessing their effects on the computed output comparisons, we established cause and effect relationships and guidance on how best to represent new physics in the RCM for predictive capabilities purposes. At the conclusion of this project, we have at our disposal a modern and flexible inner magnetospheric model coupled to the ionosphere that is suitable for both scientific studies as well as a prediction tool. We are able to run the model faster than real time on sufficiently modern computational platforms for many days of magnetospheric time. In collaboration with the multi-agency Community Coordinated Modeling Center (CCMC), we made available a version of the RCM that runs in real time . We plan on exploring additional ways to expand this line of work by finding ways to fund a more systematic effort in making the RCM a space weather prediction tool for magnetospheric and ionospheric studies relevant to space weather requirements.