Table of Contents ====================================================================== 1. GEM Metrics and Validation Focus Group: 2013-2014 Workshop Report 2. Workshop Announcement: Plasmasphere Behavior and its Influence on the Ionosphere and Magnetosphere October 28-30, 2014, Fuller Lodge, Los Alamos, NM 3. JOB OPENING: Tenure-Track Faculty Position in Plasma Physics West Virginia University 4. JOB OPENING: Tenure-Track Assistant Professor of Physics and Astronomy at Trinity University ====================================================================== *************************** ** THE GEM MESSENGER ** *************************** Volume 24, Number 28 September 24, 2014 ---------------------------------------------------------------------- 1. GEM Metrics and Validation Focus Group: 2013-2014 Workshop Report ---------------------------------------------------------------------- From: Timothy Guild, Lutz Rastaetter, and Howard Singer The GGCM Metrics and Validation Focus Group held three well-attended sessions at this past GEM workshop in Portsmouth, VA, on Thursday and Friday, June 19-20, 2014. The first session was held jointly with the Scientific Magnetic Mapping and Techniques focus group and is reported on by that group as well as briefly below. The second session was “Model Uncertainty: Dealing with Uncertain Physical Processes and Boundary Conditions.” In this session, modelers reported on their models and there are plans to extend validation efforts that measure models’ sensitivity to inner boundary conditions. The final session was on “Validating Models under Extreme Geomagnetic Conditions.” In this session, results were presented from simulations that attempt to extend model results to storms like the 1859 ‘Carrington’ event that brought auroras and geomagnetically induced currents to extremely low magnetic latitudes (i.e., tropical and subtropical geographic latitudes). The results from these studies will help to guide our understanding of model capabilities, where improvements are needed, and to identify gaps in our understanding of physical processes. During the last year we completed a community-wide modeling challenge by calculating K-index values from magnetic perturbations at selected magnetometer stations using 5 models and 6 challenge events. A paper on an earlier dB/dt study was published (Pulkkinen et al, 2013), a paper on the calculation of magnetic perturbations from first- principles magnetosphere–ionosphere models was submitted (L. Rastaetter et al., 2014) and the K-index paper is in preparation (A. Glocer et al, 2014). Plans for the next year include: Conduct challenges evaluating how different model inner boundary conditions affect comparisons with magnetopause observations (Y. Collado-Vega, L. Rastaetter, A. Glocer, modelers). We also will address models’ resiliency when faced with extreme solar wind inputs and study model recovery after extreme inputs subside. The Metrics and Validation focus group is also collaborating with the Scientific Magnetic Mapping & Techniques and the Radiation Belts and Wave Modeling focus groups. We are developing automatic validation of run-requests at the CCMC that will aid users to study models’ outputs. Publications: A. Pulkkinen et al., “Community-wide validation of ground magnetic field perturbation predictions of geospace models to support model transition to operations”, Space Weather 11 (6), 369-385, doi:10.1002/2013SW000990 (2013). L. Rastaetter, et al., “CalcDeltaB: An efficient post-processing tool to calculate ground-level magnetic perturbations from global magnetosphere simulations”, submitted to Space Weather (2014). A. Glocer, et al., “Community-wide validation of K-index calculations from geospace models o support model transition to operations”, in preparation for Space Weather (2014). 2014 GEM Summer Workshop session details: Joint session with Scientific Magnetic Mapping and Techniques Focus Group The Scientific Magnetic Mapping and Techniques focus group and the Metrics and Validation focus groups had a joint session that solicited contributions relevant to both the magnetic mapping and metrics and validation themes. More details on the joint session can be found in the Scientific Magnetic Mapping and Techniques focus group report. The following presentations stood out as being of particular interest to the Metrics and Validation focus group: Results from improved altitude adjusted corrected geomagnetic coordinates (AACGM) coefficients were presented. The AACGM coefficients are able to perform more accurate magnetic mapping near the South-Atlantic Anomaly. M. Sitnov reported on the capabilities of the Tsyganenko-Sitnov 2007 model. Use of more inner magnetosphere observations improves spatial resolution near the Earth. G. Chisham reported on SuperDARN observations that can determine the open-closed magnetic field (polar cap) boundary. With the existing radars and new radars being built the coverage may become sufficient to perform routine comparisons with global models. Session on Model Uncertainty: Dealing with Uncertain Physical Processes and Boundary Conditions One of the necessary metrics used in data assimilation and ensemble modeling is a thorough understanding of model uncertainty. It is also, however, a quantity which has been the subject of few studies and is currently poorly understood for many of the GEM community models. Therefore, in this session we solicited contributions discussing how model uncertainties and uncertain boundary conditions affect model results and validation. Specifically solicited were strategies to accommodate uncertainty in modeled physical processes (e.g. uncertain radiation belt diffusion coefficients), uncertainty in boundary conditions (e.g. upstream solar wind), or the validation of models at their boundaries (such as ground-based magnetometers). We had six contributions (R. Weigel, A. Glocer, R. Walker, L. Rastaetter, D. DeZeuw and Y. Collado-Vega) and a discussion of two upcoming GEM Challenge ideas. CCMC resources were used to compare differences in the magnetopause shape between different global MHD models depending on preconditioning (startup) and internal model parameter settings. During extreme driving, the inner boundary conditions of a global MHD model can affect the pressure and shape of the ring current. Differences in the solar wind observations between two solar wind monitors can be used to infer the uncertainty in a global MHD simulation, especially in storm recovery phase. The Virtual Model Repository is developing tools to facilitate comparison and validation of CCMC archived runs, which is searchable by event. We had two discussions of GEM Challenges – one testing models for performance in predicting the magnetopause crossing of geosynchronous satellites and the other testing global MHD model’s ability to accurately reproduce the ULF wave power in the magnetosphere. Both challenges are expected to be highly relevant to understanding the dynamics of the radiation belts. Session on Validating Models under Extreme Geomagnetic Conditions Extreme events in the geospace environment are among the most interesting scientifically as well as important for their space weather consequences. The goals for this session were: to show model results for extreme events in the magnetosphere, to share information about the range of conditions where models have been validated, to assess methods for validating model performance with limited observations (such as for early historical events), and to assess the reliability of a model outside the range in which it has been validated. These results will guide our understanding of the magnetosphere under extreme conditions, and provide insight into what physics needs to be incorporated into models so that they perform better during extreme events. This work is at the heart of the M&V focus group, attempting to understand data/model differences from validation studies to improve the underlying physics of geospace models, and thus enabling a more complete GGCM with improved prediction efficiencies. In this session we had contributions from J. Raeder, M. Wiltberger, D. Welling, V. Jordanova (given by Welling), R. Weigel (including B. Curtis), Y. Shprits, C. Ngwira, and A. Glocer (including M-C. Fok). Participants discussed the lack of extreme events during the modern era of multi-satellite and ground-based observations, although we’ve heard that in July 2012, Earth escaped what likely would have been an extreme event that instead was aimed at STEREO ahead. While we can test models on a few historic events, when we don’t have critical observations, some speculation is needed to understand how models will perform under extreme conditions. Concerns were expressed about how well the ionosphere portions of the coupled magnetospheric MHD models will perform, e.g. how well will they deal with extreme precipitation and high temperatures, issues related to capturing well the cross polar cap potential, coupling to inner magnetosphere models, and modeling ionospheric ion outflow. There is also a need for developing data assimilation techniques for use with coupled magnetosphere/ionosphere models. It was pointed out that the physics- based numerical models have a better chance for representing extreme conditions since empirical models don’t have many of these events in their database. It was suggested that models need improvements related to features such as model resolution and the specification of ionospheric conductance. Some model runs have resulted in negative pressures and density errors during extreme conditions, illustrating the need for a more systematic evaluation of extreme events. One modeler mentioned the need for improved physics in inner magnetosphere models, such as how to handle open field line regions, and poor results that can come from inconsistent inputs. Another modeler showed significant differences between models for the same events and talked about the need for more uncertainty analysis. Attempts are being made to artificially construct the solar wind for historic events and try to match some of the few ground-based observations. These tests can try to isolate which current systems might have been important for producing the few observed ground-based observations. A better description of ionospheric outflow of O+ seems to be critical to reproduce the Dst response in storms. Discussions of results and challenges, such as those mentioned above, will help to define future studies that can better assess where emphasis is needed on future model development. ---------------------------------------------------------------------- 2. Workshop Announcement: Plasmasphere Behavior and its Influence on the Ionosphere and Magnetosphere October 28-30, 2014, Fuller Lodge, Los Alamos, NM ---------------------------------------------------------------------- From: Pontus Brandt The team of the NASA/LWS Focused Science Topic (FST) of Plasmaspheric Behavior and Influences invites broad participation in a workshop, free of charge, to be held this fall in Los Alamos, NM. The workshop will cover advances in understanding plasmaspheric behavior using ground-based, space-borne in-situ and imaging data, as well as physical, empirical and assimilation models. Science topics include, but are not limited to: - Mass density structure and composition of the plasmasphere - Refilling of the plasmasphere and its dependence on season, external forcing and composition - External control of plasmasphere dynamics and plasmapause structure, such as convection changes, under- and over-shielding - Global, 3D transport of the plasmasphere-ionosphere system, including effects of MI-coupling, cross-polar tongue of ionization, and the sub-auroral polarization stream (SAPS) - Role of plasmasphere in wave generation and propagation, and their interaction with radiation belts and the ring current - Plasmasphere loss through the magnetopause and impacts on dayside reconnection Workshop format is informal with ample room for discussion. A mini- hike will also be organized. REGISTRATION DEADLINE: 1 Oct (email: pontus.brandt@jhuapl.edu). Please indicate tentative title/topic that you would like to discuss. LOCATION: Fuller Lodge, 2132 Central Ave, Los Alamos, NM 87544 INFORMATION: Agenda and logistics will soon be posted on http://sd-www.jhuapl.edu/plasmasphere/ ---------------------------------------------------------------------- 3. JOB OPENING: Tenure-Track Faculty Position in Plasma Physics West Virginia University ---------------------------------------------------------------------- From: Paul Cassak The Department of Physics and Astronomy at West Virginia University invites applications for a faculty appointment in plasma physics at the rank of Assistant Professor. The preferred start date is August 16, 2015. Qualified candidates in any area of theoretical, computational, or observational plasma physics are encouraged to apply. The following research areas would complement existing experimental and theory strengths within the department: (1) low temperature plasma physics theory/simulation; (2) space or solar plasma physics theory/simulation or observation; (3) plasma medicine; and (4) high energy density physics theory/simulation. Minimum requirements are a Ph.D., or equivalent, in physics or a related field with a commitment and ability to lead an independent research program and to excel in teaching physics courses at the undergraduate and graduate levels. The successful candidate will present a strong record of research productivity as evidenced by publication record and scientific collaborations and the potential to develop an externally funded, nationally competitive, research program. The WVU plasma physics program includes four Professors and three Research Professors. The research areas emphasized in the WVU Department of Physics and Astronomy (http://physics.wvu.edu) are astrophysics, condensed matter physics, physics education, and plasma physics. The department moved into a new facility with state-of-the-art research laboratories in 2012. On-campus shared computational facilities are available and WVU is on the Internet 2 high-speed backbone. To apply, send (1) a cover letter addressed to the Plasma Physics Search Committee, (2) a curriculum vitae including a complete list of publications and relevant teaching experience, (3) a research plan for the next five years including an estimate of start-up costs, and (4) a statement of teaching philosophy and experience. Send these documents in a single pdf file to plasmasearch@mail.wvu.edu with the subject line Plasma Search. Please arrange for three letters of recommendation to be sent to the same electronic address. Review of applications will begin December 21, 2014 and will continue until the position is filled. WVU is an Equal Employment Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer and the recipient of an NSF ADVANCE award for gender equity. The university is committed to diversity and welcomes applications from all qualified individuals, including minorities, females, individuals with disabilities, and veterans. ---------------------------------------------------------------------- 4. JOB OPENING: Tenure-Track Assistant Professor of Physics and Astronomy at Trinity University ---------------------------------------------------------------------- From: Niescja Turner Trinity University invites applications for the position of tenure- track Assistant Professor of Physics and Astronomy, to begin in August 2015. Candidates must have a Ph.D. in Physics or a closely related field. Demonstrated success in teaching undergraduates is also desirable. The successful candidate will be dedicated to undergraduate teaching, establish a research program that includes participation by highly motivated and capable undergraduates, and oversee the department's rooftop telescope observatory. Candidates in experimental, theoretical, or computational research, particularly in the areas of astronomy, astrophysics, or cosmology, are encouraged to apply. The Department of Physics and Astronomy (http://new.trinity.edu/academics/departments/physics- astronomy) currently has six faculty members and attracts outstanding undergraduates into its program. Active research areas include experimental and computational biophysics, magnetospheric space physics, dynamics and pattern formation in soft matter and biological systems, gravitational-wave interferometry, nanomaterials/plasmonics, and quantum mechanics of few- body systems. The department's majors are among the most talented in the university, winning numerous Goldwater and NSF Graduate Fellowships, and many attend top-ranked graduate schools. Many opportunities exist for interdisciplinary interactions in the sciences, math and engineering. Trinity University (http://www.trinity.edu) is an independent, coeducational, selective, primarily undergraduate institution with high quality science, liberal arts, and pre-professional programs. Trinity is among the national leaders in percentage of graduates who earn doctorates in the sciences. Undergraduate enrollment is about 2500, with students from all areas of the U.S. and many foreign countries. The attractive campus overlooks downtown San Antonio, a large, vibrant city with many cultural opportunities. Applicants must submit a curriculum vitae, detailed statements of experience and interests in both teaching and research (including a description of opportunities for student research participation), and may submit other materials of their choice. Applicants must also arrange to have at least three letters of reference sent to the Search Committee. In order to receive full, first-review consideration, complete application materials and letters of reference should be received at the following address by November 1, 2014. Chair of the Search Committee Tenure-track Assistant Professor of Physics and Astronomy Department of Physics and Astronomy Trinity University, One Trinity Place San Antonio, TX 78212-7200 Trinity University is an equal opportunity employer. We strongly encourage applications from qualified women and minority candidates. +-------------------------------------------------------------------+ | To broadcast announcements to the GEM community, please contact | | Peter Chi, GEM Communications Coordinator, at: | | | | | | Please submit your announcements in plain text or Word document. | | | | To subscribe the GEM Messenger, send an e-mail to | | | | with the following command in the body of your e-mail message: | | subscribe gem | | To remove yourself from the mailing list, the command is: | | unsubscribe gem | | | | GEM Messenger is also posted online via newsfeed at | | http://heliophysics.blogspot.com and | | http://www.facebook.com/heliophysics | | | | Back issues are available at: | | http://www-ssc.igpp.ucla.edu/gemwiki/messenger/ | | | | URL of GEM Home Page: http://aten.igpp.ucla.edu/gemwiki | | Workshop Information: http://www.cpe.vt.edu/gem/index.html | +-------------------------------------------------------------------+