5. The journey of solar shock waves in the turbulent interplanetary space

ESA supervisor: Dr. Domenico Trotta
Collaborator(s): Dr. Andrew Walsh, Dr. Nils Janitzek

Site: ESAC

The solar system (heliosphere) is a unique astrophysical system, as it can be investigated directly by means of spacecraft instrumentation. With its revolutionary instrumentation probing uncharted regions of interplanetary space close to the Sun, Solar Orbiter has opened a new observational window in the heliosphere. The project focuses on the study of shock waves driven by solar eruption with such revolutionary instrumentation. In particular, it will tackle the interaction between solar shocks and ambient turbulence, a poorly understood phenomenon yet likely crucial for many astrophysical environments. The candidate will analyse direct measurements of magnetic fields, plasma and energetic particles (electrons, ions) and exploit the most advanced shock survey to date to understand how the passage of shocks influences the turbulence properties of the solar system and, vice-versa, how regions of the solar systems with different turbulence properties influence the behavior of solar shocks. This project is at the forefront of both Solar Orbiter science and research on shock waves, and is expected to produce a paper in a relevant scientific journal.

Project duration: 6 months.

Desirable expertise or programming language:

• Expertise with Python is desirable.
• Previous knowledge of plasma/heliospheric physics is an asset but not required.

To apply for this project please fill in an online application form through the following link.

To see the full list of Internships available at ESA please go to our website for ESA Career Opportunities.