In a new study, space physicists led by the University of Iowa report the most detailed account to date about a string of eruptions on the sun that produced geomagnetic storms on Mother’s Day.

Associate Professor Allison Jaynes has received a $50,000 award through Purdue University to support research investigating how key processes in Earth's radiation belts influence space weather and the acceleration of energetic particles. The project will advance scientific understanding of radiation belt dynamics and help improve predictive capabilities that are critical for protecting satellites and other space-based technologies.

Copilot said: The University of Iowa hosted six Iowa high school physics teachers for its annual QuarkNet Professional Development Program, a two-day workshop that connected educators with university researchers through hands-on particle physics activities, data analysis, and STEM education training. Led by Michael Kistler and Dr. Chris Like, with mentorship from Professors Yasar Onel and Jane Nachtman, the program aims to strengthen physics education statewide by bringing cutting-edge scientific research into Iowa classrooms.

A new method, led by graduate student Jessica Mondoskin, could make magnetic field research more accessible to students, educators, and citizen scientists.

From research at a national laboratory to nights at Van Allen Observatory, CLAS student Mallory Weber found a community that helped turn her curiosity about the universe into a future.

Researchers in the Department have discovered that a magnetic cloud from a solar eruption expanded much more rapidly than expected as it traveled toward Earth. Their findings could help scientists better predict space weather and understand how solar storms may impact satellites, navigation systems, and power grids.

Shirsh Lata Soni, a postdoctoral research fellow in the Department of Physics and Astronomy at the University of Iowa, led the team that pieced the event together. Soni studies solar outbursts and saw the lineup as a rare gift.

A new study led by University of Iowa Physics & Astronomy researcher Shirsh Lata Soni found that a solar storm in 2021 expanded much faster than scientists expected as it traveled toward Earth. Using rare observations from two spacecraft aligned along the Sun-Earth path, the team discovered the storm grew about 21% in size and became significantly hotter over a short distance, challenging existing models and highlighting the need for improved space weather forecasting. 

The University of Iowa has been selected to join a National Science Foundation-funded consortium advancing next-generation quantum sensing, with Professor Michael Flatté leading Iowa's work. His team will help design materials and devices aimed at demonstrating the real-world advantages of quantum technologies.

University of Iowa researchers using NASA’s TRACERS mission have taken a closer look at how energy from the sun travels to Earth. By tracking fast-moving electrons, they were able to better understand how solar energy enters Earth’s atmosphere and interacts with its magnetic field. These new insights could help improve our understanding of space weather and its effects on Earth.