AOP Solar and Planetary Studies: Consolidated Grant 2018 - 2021

This research combines studies of our Sun and Solar System.

The most ubiquitous jets in the solar chromosphere are spicules which have the potential to play a major role in the mass and energy balance of the corona and solar wind. We currently do not understand the mechanism(s) responsible for the formation and heating of these features, the role of the magnetic field in their time evolution or their full impact on the chromospheric mass and energy balance. None of the many theoretical models available can simultaneously explain the ubiquity, speeds, heating and dynamical evolution of spicules. This proposal seeks PDRA funding to use high-resolution observations from the Swedish Solar Telescope and the Daniel K. Inouye Solar Telescope. To properly constrain models and settle these outstanding issues, we need to know the magnetic field structure, flows and thermodynamic conditions in and around spicules. We wish to build on our detection of high-frequency waves in chromospheric spicular features and to explore more deeply the link between intensity and horizontal velocity oscillations which could be due to coupling of compressive and non-compressive waves and the interaction of the flux tube with its neighbours.

In planetary science we seek to understand the origin of our planetary system, the evolution of the small bodies - comets and asteroids - within it and how these are related to the emergence of life on our planet. The new techniques we will develop (PDRA 1) to interpret spectra of polarised sunlight scattered off solid surfaces and from atmospheres will help us understand better the composition of solar system bodies, including primitive objects rich in water and organics, and how these evolve over time. We will study asteroids near the orbit of the Earth (PDRA 2), seeking clues to the origin and early evolution of our planet and how it acquired the ingredients necessary for life to begin. Not only are there compelling scientific reasons to study such objects and their interrelationships with each other, but the accumulated wealth of new information also strengthens the UK's position as a partner in the global effort to explore our solar system.

AOP follows a multi-pronged approach in delivering its impact plan.

Our scientific research feeds directly into fundamental questions of interest to the scientific community about how the solar system and the Earth formed, the development of life, the workings of the Sun and its impact on Earth's environment.
The same research has a wide range of applications across the different astronomical disciplines and to industry (eg polarimetry). Our continuing programme of investing in new instrumentation and detector technologies enhances the UK's technological competitiveness and enables our students to develop the skills sought by industry. Our programme of public engagement, recently enhanced by strengthening ties with the nearby Armagh Planetarium, widens public understanding of science for all and inspires people to follow careers in science.