The NW7US Beacon

Here is the current forecast discussion on space weather and geophysical activity, issued 2018 Dec 16 1230 UTC.

Solar Activity

24 hr Summary: Solar activity was very low. Only areas of plage remained on the solar disk. No Earth-directed CMEs were observed in available coronagraph imagery.

Forecast: Solar activity is expected to be at very low levels on 16-18 Dec.

Energetic Particle

24 hr Summary: The greater than 2 MeV electron flux ranged from moderate to high levels reaching a peak flux of 1,270 pfu at 15/1900 UTC. The greater than 10 MeV proton flux remained at background values.

Forecast: The greater than 2 MeV electron flux is expected to be at moderate levels on 16 Dec due to weak CIR effects ahead of a CH HSS. Moderate to high levels are expected to return on 17-18 Dec. The greater than 10 MeV proton flux is expected to continue at background levels.

Solar Wind

24 hr Summary: Solar wind parameters, as measured by the DSCOVR spacecraft, reflected nominal conditions. Total magnetic field strength was below 5 nT. Solar wind speeds were mostly between 300-350 km/s. Phi angle transitioned from the negative sector to variable after 16/0000 UTC.

Forecast: A slightly enhanced solar wind environment is likely on 16-17 Dec due to weak negative polarity CH HSS effects. Nominal solar wind conditions are expected to return on 18 Dec.

Geospace

24 hr Summary: The geomagnetic field was quiet.

Forecast: The geomagnetic field is expected to reach unsettled conditions, with a chance of an isolated active period, on 16-17 Dec due to anticipated weak CH HSS influence. Quiet conditions are expected on 18 Dec.

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