Chronology of ‘killer’ electrons: Solar cycles 22 and 23

Abstract Measurements of >2 MeV electrons on GOES satellites from 1986 to 2007 are used to build a graphic chronology of outer radiation belt enhancements. Daily values of L =6.6 equivalent flux are colour coded and ordered by Carrington rotation to illustrate the pattern of occurrence frequency and intensity through the two solar cycles, and to contrast the form of recurrent and non-recurrent events. Highlighted are associations with high solar wind speed and southward interplanetary magnetic field that are clearly key to the energisation process, inducing high levels of geomagnetic activity during the growth phase. The chronology is offered as a simple background reference for the specific event case studies that are needed to understand the physical processes responsible for the production and dynamics of these relativistic electrons and their consequent internal electrostatic discharge threat to spacecraft systems. It is now possible to refine an empirical model for the solar cycle variation of this threat.