322
Solar Flare Signatures in Nitric Oxide Emissions using SABER Data

- Indicates paper has been withdrawn from meeting
- Indicates an Award Winner
Monday, 5 January 2015
Elliot C. Shiben, Space@vt, Blacksburg, VA

The purpose of this study is to observe SABER data readings. SABER data is necessary to recognize solar flares and their impact on nitric oxide levels, as well as carbon dioxide levels, in the atmosphere. Nitric oxide levels increase as a result of solar flares due to the increase of energy in the upper atmosphere. In order to recognize and observe solar flares SABER data becomes necessary to understand their significance to our atmosphere . I am observing multiple readings from SABER and looking specifically for spikes in NO data which correlates to solar flares. As nitric oxide levels increase in the upper atmosphere (above 100 kilometers) there should be a direct relationship with solar activity. Eventually I plan to recognize whether or not SABER can observe these spikes in the nitric oxide levels or not as well as the severity of the impact of the solar winds on nitric oxide levels. Preliminary readings of SABER's data point towards an agreement of my predictions and a spike in nitric oxide levels during solar storms. This data will become more relevant when SABER's observations become closer to the equatorial region and and solar maximum hours are occurring.