Enhanced Spacecraft Charging Risks by Interplanetary Alfvén Waves During Geomagnetic Storms

Abstract Spacecraft surface charging, an important issue in space weather research, is investigated in this study for its susceptibility to Alfvén waves (AW) during geomagnetic storms. The investigation reveals a pronounced increase in spacecraft charging risk in geosynchronous orbit, particularly in the recovery phase of these storms. Although spacecraft potential is inversely related to southward interplanetary magnetic field and solar wind velocity, these correlations are insufficient to account for the observed variances. A marked prevalence of AW during the recovery phase was identified, with AW‐influenced solar wind correlating to more negative satellite surface potentials. In particular, an enhancement of the AW amplitude is linked to a higher potential of the satellite. The correlation between heightened AW occurrence, elevated electron temperatures, and thermal velocities in geosynchronous orbit, especially on the night side, is also established. These findings highlight the exacerbating influence of AW on spacecraft charging risks during the recovery phase of geomagnetic storms, underscoring the urgent need for improved monitoring and mitigation strategies.