Researchers at the Belgian Institute for Space Aeronomy study the magnetosphere in order to understand the physical mechanisms, which control this extended dynamic system.
It is, more specifically, important to know how the solar wind and the magnetosphere interact in response to the cyclical and transient variations of the solar activity.

The better we understand this interaction, the better we can predict the events, occurring in the magnetosphere, and of which the consequences are pernicious for technology: disturbances in the functioning of satellites, sometimes irreparable damages, danger of radiations for astronauts… Investigating such a matter requires the use of space missions such as Cluster, composed of four satellites (picture 1). The Belgian Institute for Space Aeronomy is involved with this mission, which should provide a better understanding of the interaction between the Sun and the Earth. (picture 2) The satellites, launched in July and August 2000, are repetitively crossing the magnetic field of our planet. (picture 3) The goal is the creation of a three-dimensional and non-stationary (picture 4) cartography of areas in space, where the interaction itself manifests mostly.

Since the discovery of the radiation belts, lots of satellites and rockets have carried instruments to observe its structure and its dynamics. They conduct in situ measurement. (picture 5) In the meantime, theoretical studies have been conducted to understand the observed phenomena and create models. The Belgian Institute for Space Aeronomy is involved with international studies, which constantly improve the existing models and develop new ones for use in the space-industry. The programme Space Environment Information System (SPENVIS), a result of these studies, is largely used all over the world to analyse the radiation environment of future satellite missions.