Unveiling the Role of Mesoscale Structures of CME Magnetic Fields on Space-weather Prediction Accuracy using Radio Remote Sensing

Objective

Magnetized plasma eruptions from the Sun, coronal mass ejections (CMEs), can disturb Earth’s magnetic shield, generating space weather (SWx) that impacts satellites, aviation, power grids, and other critical technologies. Reliable forecasts require knowledge of arrival time and mesoscale magnetic fields (B-fields), comparable in scale to Earth’s magnetosphere. Current state-of-the-art methods for SWx forecasting rely mainly on models and remain limited by the absence of direct measurements of CME B-field in the coronal and heliospheric height. The primary objective of this project is to develop a novel remote-sensing technique for mapping B-fields of CMEs as they propagate from the Sun to Earth. By exploiting changes in the Faraday rotation of ubiquitous polarized galactic emission by the magnetized heliospheric plasma, new-generation ground-based radio telescopes will, for the first time, provide heliospheric B-field maps. This will address a key observational gap in current SWx research by providing direct constraints on the evolution of large- and mesoscale plasma structures, particularly for B-fields. Combined with high-resolution MHD simulations, these observations will fill key knowledge gaps on the formation and evolution of mesoscale plasma structures, their interactions with large-scale structures, and during CME propagation. This interdisciplinary project — combining radio astronomy, solar physics, and MHD simulations — will transform SWx research by delivering the first CME B-field maps. This has a long-term societal and economic impact, with applications extending from fundamental research to operational forecasting, fully aligned with Horizon Europe and international heliophysics priorities. My supervisors, Dr. Pietro Zucca and Dr. Angelos Vourlidas, leading experts in solar and SWx research, will provide expertise and resources to guide this MSCA fellowship, offering strong career development and preparing the fellow as an independent researcher.