Exploring the connection between solar energetic particles at the Sun and in the heliosphere

Solar flares are the product of a rapid release of energy due to magnetic reconnection, which results in outward-propagating magnetic fields and closed fluxed tubes below the reconnection site. The energy released during a solar flare is separated into thermal and non-thermal particle energy, as well as turbulence, which is a vital mechanism in transferring energy. The energy released manifests in many ways, such as acceleration of electrons and ions and an increase in thermal energy which is radiated away across the electromagnetic spectrum. Observations suggest that during the impulsive phase a significant amount of the released energy is used to accelerate electrons both downwards into the Sun and outwards into the Heliosphere. 

This poster discusses the aims of the PhD project which is a part of a larger study which will explore the connection between solar flare energetic electrons observed at the Sun and in the heliosphere. Current work will be discussed (i.e. mapping turbulence in a solar flare) as well as the next steps in the project.