This Research Topic is Volume II of a series. The previous volume can be found here:
Variability in the Solar Wind and its Impact on the Coupled Magnetosphere-Ionosphere-Thermosphere System

The plasma and fields variability of the solar wind, which include the pristine solar wind structures (e.g., ICMEs, IMF discontinuities, coherent structures, interplanetary shocks, high speed streams, and other variations in the solar wind) and the perturbations coming from the bow shock and foreshock, are the main sources of space hazards. They can significantly influence the dynamics of the magnetosphere and considerably affect human technological systems in the coupled magnetospheric and ionospheric system. For better prediction and mitigation of the consequences of space weather events, it is essential to apply a holistic approach which incorporates studying the generation and evolution of these solar wind structures, and their impacts on the magnetosphere, ionosphere and thermosphere.

The goal of this Research Topic is to bring together research dedicated to different aspects of the Space Weather domain with an aim to highlight how solar wind variability governs energy flow through the heliosphere.

This Research Topic includes the three main sub-topics:

1. Properties of solar wind structures from the Sun to the magnetosphere
This subsection is dedicated to the various properties of solar wind fluctuations, including their origin, propagation, and evolution from the Sun to the Earth's magnetosphere. The topics of interest include:
• The generation of solar wind structures in the solar corona and their relation to solar activity;
• The evolution of the pristine solar wind structures during their propagation through the heliosphere, and the possible modulations by shock and foreshock processes;
• The role of the fluctuations of the solar wind speed, density, and magnetic field in the magnetospheric responses;
• The influence of solar wind composition and ionization state on the fluctuations;
• The spatiotemporal distribution of solar wind fluctuations and their connection to solar features, such as coronal holes and active regions.

2. Mechanisms governing the interaction between the solar wind and the magnetosphere
This subsection aims to explore various processes that govern the interaction between solar wind structures and the Earth's magnetosphere. The topics of interest include:
• Advances in magnetic reconnections at the magnetopause and in the magnetotail;
• The impact of solar wind fluctuations on the magnetopause, magnetotail, and inner magnetosphere;
• Magnetic storms and substorms that are induced by solar wind fluctuations;
• The evolution of foreshock transients while propagating through the magnetosheath, their impact on the magnetosphere and ionosphere;
• The role of solar wind fluctuations in the generation of magnetospheric waves and their effects on radiation belts and ionospheric current systems.

3. Effects of solar wind structures on the ionosphere, thermosphere and human infrastructure
This subsection aims to assess the potential consequences of solar wind fluctuations and their magnetospheric responses on the ionosphere, thermosphere, critical infrastructure and humans, with an emphasis on understanding how these fluctuations could impact various aspects of human life and infrastructure. The topics of interest include:
• The influence of solar wind structures on the atmospheric drag and reentry of space debris, and the further influence on satellite operations, including orbit perturbations and satellite charging;
• The impact of solar wind variability on power grid stability and the potential for geomagnetically induced currents;
• The effects of solar wind fluctuations on radio communication and navigation systems, such as GPS and HF communications;
• The potential effects of solar wind variability on human life, particularly for astronauts in space and air travelers;

Contributions to this Research Topic are encouraged from a diverse range of research approaches, including theoretical analyses, observational data from ground-based and space-based instruments, and advances in numerical simulations. Combining these methods can offer a comprehensive understanding of the dynamics of solar wind structures and their impact on the coupled Magnetosphere-Ionosphere-Thermosphere system, ultimately improving our ability to predict develop mitigation strategies and prepare for extreme space weather events.

Are you interested in contributing a manuscript to this Research Topic?

Variability in the Solar Wind and its Impact on the Coupled Magnetosphere-Ionosphere-Thermosphere System, Volume II