Sun to the Earth -- and Beyond

A Decadal Research Strategy in Solar and Space Physics

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• Publisher: National Academies Press
• Year: 2003
• eBook ISBN: 9780309508001
• Edition: 0
• Topic: Physical Sciences

The sun is the source of energy for life on earth and is the strongest modulator of the human physical environment. In fact, the Suns influence extends throughout the solar system, both through photons, which provide heat, light, and ionization, and through the continuous outflow of a magnetized, supersonic ionized gas known as the solar wind.While the accomplishments of the past decade have answered important questions about the physics of the Sun, the interplanetary medium, and the space environments of Earth and other solar system bodies, they have also highlighted other questions, some of which are long-standing and fundamental. The Sun to the Earth"e;and Beyond organizes these questions in terms of five challenges that are expected to be the focus of scientific investigations in solar and space physics during the coming decade and beyond.

Table of contents

• FrontMatter
• Preface
• Contents
• Executive Summary
• 1 Solar and Space Physics: Milestones and Science Challenges
• 2 Integrated Research Strategy for Solar and Space Physics
• 3 Technology Development
• 4 Connections Between Solar and Space Physics and Other Disciplines
• 5 Effects of the Solar and Space Environment on Technology and Society
• 6 Education and Public Outreach
• 7 Strengthening the Solar and Space Physics Research Enterprise
• Appendixes
• A Statement of Task
• B Acronyms and Abbreviations
• C Biographical Information for Members of the Solar and Space Physics Survey Committee