Cutting-Edge Projects in Aurora Participatory Science

Abstract: Participatory science (formerly/also known as citizen science) connects scientists with the public to enable discovery, engaging broad audiences across the world. Participatory science in the space weather community takes many forms, including funded projects, coordinated campaigns, and grassroots efforts. Aurora chasers in particular collaborate with scientists and are key players in nearly all processes of aurora research. This includes the direct study of auroral phenomena and developing and evaluating educational space weather materials and tools. This presentation will highlight several cutting-edge participatory science efforts and the ways in which they are advancing aurora research and space weather education. 1. Aurorasaurus is a NASA and NSF-funded participatory science project producing real-time maps of global auroral visibility by crowdsourcing ground-truth reports on its website. Aurorasaurus’ data have been used to validate operational models of the aurora (e.g., OVATION) and was involved in the first modern scientific publication of the rare auroral phenomenon STEVE. The project also engages communities through its Ambassador network and educational initiatives. 2. AurorEye is a portable, autonomous all-sky imager optimized for timelapse aurora photography. Units are deployed to aurora chasers who gather data in the field, and the resulting all-sky data are used in research and participatory science. AurorEye is being developed by Jeremy Kuzub. 3. The Upper Midwest Aurora Chasers is an online aurora chasing group conducting a comprehensive review of popular mobile applications serving aurora chasers. Online aurora chasing groups around the world act as spaces where scientists can connect with the general public. These groups may be engaged directly in participatory science campaigns. 4. Rare auroral phenomena have received recent attention due to the increased observations and collaborations with scientists. Investigations into phenomena such as SAR Arcs, STEVEs and Fragmented Aurora-like Emissions (FAEs) are shedding new light on how our magnetosphere and ionosphere interact and the capabilities of participatory science data. Some of the most difficult questions in space physics require innovative research methods leveraging novel datasets and a variety of perspectives. Participatory science is emerging as an effective tool by which scientists can leverage the diverse skills and capabilities of enthusiast groups like aurora chasers for research, outreach initiatives, and education. Through collaboration, we empower people to become advocates of our science and the scientific process.