To observe and understand the mechanisms that give rise to variable radiative output from the sun, how particles and fields from the sun interact with Earth's magnetosphere and ionosphere, and the coupling, energetics and dynamics of upper atmospheric regions from the mesosphere to the exosphere. The ultimate goal is to develop a predictive capability of the effects of the solar terrestrial environment on the Earth and its climate. The research is based on a synergistic approach involving observations, data interpretation, and theoretical analysis and modeling. The Solar Influences Program has already led to improved understanding and models of the processes governing how energy is coupled through the atmosphere via particle transport, chemistry, electrodynamics and winds. Another vital goal of SIP is to develop an understanding of the solar radiative component of global climate change.
Similar connections exist with several DoD satellite missions.
DoD laboratories actively participating in SIP include Phillips Lab and the Naval Research Lab. Finally, SIP has a strong educational interface, exemplified by the attendance of over 180 students at a recent 1994 Summer Workshop in Boulder, Colorado. Among the important contributions made in the study of solar influences is the recognition that the upper atmosphere is a very sensitive indicator of global warming because changes observed in these tenuous regions are more dramatic. If such sensitive indicators can be adequately calibrated, upper atmosphere observations could become an important element in formulating policies with regard to the build-up of greenhouse gases and the regulation of chlorofluorocarbons. In addition, knowledge gained by studying the natural variability of the sun is essential to establish a context by which the natural short-term changes in the atmosphere may be separated from anthropogenic changes.