Solar Storm Radiation Dose

Estimate the extra ionising radiation you might receive during an aurora chase or solar storm. Provide the geomagnetic Kp index, planned exposure time, solar flux, and shielding effectiveness to approximate the incremental micro-sieverts above background levels.

Planetary Kp index during the observation window (0 = quiet, 9 = extreme geomagnetic storm).
Total minutes spent outdoors under elevated solar activity.
10.7 cm solar radio flux index—values typically range from 70 (quiet) to 200+ (active).
Percentage of radiation blocked by shelter, vehicle cabins, or protective gear.

Educational information, not professional advice.

Examples

  • Kp 6 storm, 90-minute exposure, 160 sfu flux, 40% shielding ⇒ 58.32 µSv incremental dose
  • Kp 4 aurora watch, 45-minute exposure, 120 sfu flux, 20% shielding ⇒ 25.20 µSv incremental dose
  • Kp 7 severe storm, 120-minute exposure, 200 sfu flux, 60% shielding ⇒ 67.20 µSv incremental dose

FAQ

Does the dose include cosmic background radiation?

No. It estimates incremental exposure tied to heightened solar activity only, assuming background radiation is tracked separately.

How do I pick a shielding value?

Use manufacturer data or published reduction factors for observatory domes, vehicle cabins, or storm shelters to estimate the percentage blocked.

Is this suitable for mission planning?

Use this for educational comparisons only. Space agencies rely on detailed particle flux models and live NOAA SWPC/ESA forecasts for operational decisions.

What if my session spans multiple Kp readings?

Split the observation into segments with different Kp and flux values, run the calculator for each, then sum the µSv totals for a more accurate estimate.

How should airline crews interpret the result?

Commercial aviation guidelines typically manage cumulative dose separately; compare this incremental value with your airline's dose tracking log before adjusting rosters.

Does higher altitude matter?

Yes—flying at altitude or observing from high mountains increases cosmic exposure. Consider adding extra buffer or consulting aviation dose models if you operate above 2,000 metres.

Additional Information

  • The model scales geomagnetic storm intensity (Kp) and solar radio flux to estimate incremental µSv exposure beyond typical background levels.
  • For safety context, compare the output with occupational limits—many agencies cap public exposure near 1,000 µSv per year and 20 µSv per hour for controlled activities.
  • Use conservative shielding values unless you have manufacturer data; underestimating protection encourages more cautious planning.
  • Explore related astrophysics tools such as Radiocarbon Dating, Escape Velocity, and Solar Panel Savings to connect heliophysics with practical planning.

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