Ground-Based Monitoring
Magnetometers on the ground measure variations in Earth's magnetic field. From these data, global indices such as the Kp index are derived. Networks of stations (e.g. INTERMAGNET) provide real-time data used for geomagnetic storm alerts and aurora forecasting.
Space-Based Monitoring
Satellites observe the Sun and the solar wind. SOHO and SDO image the Sun and corona (flares, CMEs). ACE and DSCOVR sit between the Sun and Earth and measure solar wind speed, density, and magnetic field, giving advance warning (about 15–60 minutes) before the wind reaches Earth.
Forecasting
NOAA Space Weather Prediction Center (SWPC), ESA, and NASA combine observations and models to forecast CME arrival, geomagnetic storm strength, and aurora probability. Cosmic Radar uses their data in the daily report so you can see Kp, flares, CMEs, and aurora outlook in one place.
Sources and further reading
- NOAA SWPC – Forecasts, alerts, and real-time data
- ACE Real-Time Solar Wind – Upstream solar wind
- SOHO / SDO – Solar and CME imagery
- INTERMAGNET – Ground magnetometer network