Systematic Investigation of Solar Modulation of Galactic Protons for Solar Cycle 23 using a Monte Carlo Approach with Particle Drift Effects and Latitudinal Dependence

TL;DR

This study models galactic proton propagation through the heliosphere during solar cycle 23 using a 2-D Monte Carlo method that incorporates solar activity variations, drift effects, and latitudinal dependence, aligning well with observational data.

Contribution

It introduces a comprehensive 2-D Monte Carlo model that includes drift effects and latitudinal dependence to simulate cosmic ray modulation during solar cycle 23.

Findings

Model agrees with BESS, AMS, and PAMELA data.

Reproduces latitudinal gradient and southward offset observed by Ulysses.

Simulates solar modulation effects during cycle 23.

Abstract

A propagation model of galactic cosmic protons through the Heliosphere was implemented using a 2-D Monte Carlo approach to determine the differential intensities of protons during the solar cycle 23. The model includes the effects due to the variation of solar activity during the propagation of cosmic rays from the boundary of the heliopause down to Earth's position. Drift effects are also accounted for. The simulated spectra were found in agreement with those obtained with experimental observations carried out by BESS, AMS and PAMELA collaborations. In addition, the modulated spectrum determined with the present code for the year 1995 exhibits the latitudinal gradient and equatorial southward offset minimum found by Ulysses fast scan in 1995.