Cross-Scale Processes in Charged Particle Injection and Accelera-tion at Traveling Shocks

Description of the granted funding

The Sun occasionally releases massive explosions of charged particles, called Coronal Mass Ejections (CMEs), which send shockwaves through space. These waves supercharge tiny particles like electrons and protons, accelerating them to incredible speeds. When these particles reach Earth, they can create stunning auroras but also disrupt satellites, power grids, and communication systems. The X-Scale project seeks to uncover how these particles gain so much energy. Using data from NASA's Parker Solar Probe and ESA's Solar Orbiter, scientists are studying space shockwaves, similar to how ocean waves crash on a beach but on a cosmic scale. By combining real-world data with advanced computer models, X-Scale is solving the puzzle of particle acceleration. This research will help improve space weather forecasts, protecting technology and systems we rely on daily, like GPS and power grids. By understanding the Sun's powerful outbursts, X-Scale makes life on Earth safer and more resilient.
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Starting year

2025

End year

2029

Granted funding

Immanuel Christopher Jeba Raj
615 459 €

Funder

Research Council of Finland

Funding instrument

Academy research fellows

Decision maker

Scientific Council for Natural Sciences and Engineering
12.06.2025

Other information

Funding decision number

371569

Fields of science

Physical sciences

Research fields

Fysiikka

Identified topics

space, physics