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Research interests and projects

Studies of paleomagnetospheric processes.
The geomagnetic field generated in the Earth's core reversed its orientation many times in Earth's history. The effects on the magnetosphere can be studied by means of large-scale magnetohydrodynamic simulations and parametric models. Tracing of particle orbits in such exotic magnetic field configurations yields fluxes of high-energetic particles into the Earth's upper atmosphere which are used to model the production of cosmogenic nuclides and ozone depletion processes.

Analysis of data from magnetospheric satellite missions.
Spacecraft are the primary means to explore the Earth's magnetosphere. A cornerstone mission is Cluster-II which consists of four spacecraft probing the outer magnetosphere, its boundary layers, and the solar wind. Special analysis techniques have to be developed for such multi-satellite missions.

Magnetosphere-ionosphere coupling.
The upper (electrically conducting) layers of the Earth's atmosphere are coupled to remote magnetospheric regions through geomagnetic field lines which act as transmission channels for electrical currents, momentum, and energy between very different plasma regimes. Closely associated with this kind of interaction are magnetic storms, auroral emissions, and space weather effects. Plasma theory and numerical models allow to investigate magnetosphere-ionosphere coupling phenomena.

Optical observations of auroral curls and other small-scale auroral forms.
Auroral emissions come in a rich variety of forms and colors. Among the most fascinating phenomena are rapidly evolving small-scale auroral forms like curls which can be resolved in optical observations using light-intensified camera systems. Modern image processing techniques allow to analyze such events in detail and to put models to a test.

Teaching activities

Community service

Contact information

Postal address:
P.O. Box 750561
28725 Bremen
Germany

Visitor's address:
Campus Ring 8
28759 Bremen
Germany

Phone: +49-421-200-3252
Fax: +49-421-200-3229
Email: j.vogt at jacobs-university.de