On Sun-to-Earth Propagation of Coronal Mass Ejections

TL;DR

This study combines multiple observational methods to analyze the propagation of coronal mass ejections from the Sun to Earth, aiming to improve space weather forecasting and understand CME dynamics.

Contribution

It provides a comprehensive comparison of techniques for determining CME interplanetary kinematics and offers a general picture of Sun-to-Earth CME propagation.

Findings

Different techniques yield consistent CME kinematic profiles.

CME interactions with the heliosphere influence their propagation.

Implications for improving space weather forecasts.

Abstract

We investigate how coronal mass ejections (CMEs) propagate through, and interact with, the inner heliosphere between the Sun and Earth, a key question in CME research and space weather forecasting. CME Sun-to-Earth kinematics are constrained by combining wide-angle heliospheric imaging observations, interplanetary radio type II bursts and in situ measurements from multiple vantage points. We select three events for this study, the 2012 January 19, 23, and March 7 CMEs. Different from previous event studies, this work attempts to create a general picture for CME Sun-to-Earth propagation and compare different techniques for determining CME interplanetary kinematics. Key results are obtained concerning CME Sun-to-Earth propagation. Our comparison between different techniques (and data sets) also has important implications for CME observations and their interpretations. Future CME observations and space weather forecasting are discussed based on these results. See detail in the PDF.