This document refers to Eclipse 4.7 (Oxygen) for Windows, the most current version as of this writing. Note that different computer set ups and themes may mean that the appearance of the screen shots in this document may not match exactly your computer system. In particular, the Mac version of Eclipse looks significantly different, although it has the same functionality as the Windows version.
The ionosphere—the layer of the atmosphere that reflects radio signals—is created by solar UV radiation stripping electrons from atoms. By monitoring proxies, telecommunications companies and GPS providers can predict signal disruptions caused by solar-induced ionospheric storms. Climate and Ozone Monitoring
The most famous ultraviolet proxy is the . This measures solar radio emissions at a wavelength of 10.7 cm. Because these radio waves originate in the same solar atmospheric layers as EUV radiation but can pass through Earth's atmosphere to ground-based telescopes, F10.7 is the "gold standard" for estimating solar UV output. 2. Magnesium II (Mg II) Core-to-Wing Ratio
We have ground-based proxy data (like sunspot counts) dating back centuries, whereas satellite data only spans a few decades. Common Types of Ultraviolet Proxies ultraviolet proxy
Several different indicators are used depending on whether the goal is to track solar irradiance, predict "space weather," or monitor the ozone layer. 1. The F10.7 Index (Radio Flux)
When UV radiation increases, it heats Earth’s thermosphere, causing it to expand. This increased density at high altitudes creates "drag" on Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellites. Operators use UV proxies to predict when a satellite might lose altitude and require a maneuver to stay in orbit. Global Communications The ionosphere—the layer of the atmosphere that reflects
The use of an ultraviolet proxy isn't just academic; it has real-world implications for technology and health. Satellite Drag and Orbital Decay
To solve this, scientists and engineers rely on an . By using more easily measured phenomena as stand-ins, we can accurately estimate solar activity and its effects on our planet. What is an Ultraviolet Proxy? This measures solar radio emissions at a wavelength of 10
High-energy UV never reaches the ground, making "traditional" land-based sensors useless for monitoring the upper atmosphere.