About Space Physics

Space physics is about space weather. This is different to the weather forecasts provided by the Met bureau, although many of the terms are similar. For example, in space weather, wind speed refers to the solar wind, and a storm warning means bright aurora and possible disruptions to satellite operations and communications systems.

Space physics is a relatively new research discipline which has rapidly developed since the start of the space age (1950s). Space physics focuses on the region between the Sun and Earth, above atmospheric physics and closer to Earth than Astronomy. There is a lot of overlap with Astrophysics, particularly since we learn a lot about stars by studying the closest, our Sun. Many of the equations of plasma physics are common to space physics and astrophysics. A number of students who have worked with us in space physics have moved seamlessly into research in astrophysics.