Abstract:
Energetic electron precipitation can significantly affect Earth’s atmospheric chemistry by generating ozone-depleting NOx and HOx compounds. Accurately monitoring these precipitation events is crucial for understanding their drivers and for assessing their potential atmospheric impacts. In this talk, I present high-resolution measurements of energetic electron precipitation (EEP) captured by a novel Timepix-based radiation detector flown on a weather balloon during the May 2024 superstorm. This low-cost, low-power payload detected storm-time Bremsstrahlung X-rays at 33 km altitude, revealing a striking four-peak structure in the X-ray flux. These bursts correlated with ground-based riometer absorption, satellite observations of modulated trapped electrons, and chorus wave enhancements, consistent with Pc5 ULF wave-driven precipitation. The success of this student-led flight highlights the potential of Timepix-based detectors for future space weather monitoring on balloons, aircraft, or spacecraft, some of which I will highlight at the end of my talk.