Harnessing Citizen Science to Advance Atmospheric Research

The widespread use of smartphones has transformed not only everyday life but also the field of atmospheric science. Collecting observational data on phenomena such as cloud formations or auroras was once a labor-intensive process requiring specialized equipment. Today, the cameras in our pockets have become invaluable tools for researchers. This past May, a rare aurora appeared over Japan, and the National Institute of Polar Research (NIPR) leveraged photographs submitted by citizens across the country to conduct groundbreaking studies. Dr. Ryūhō Kataoka of NIPR called on the public via social media to observe the northern skies and submit photos, resulting in a wealth of data that helped decode the causes and characteristics of this extraordinary event.

Solar Flares and Geomagnetic Storms: The Cause of Low-Latitude Auroras
Days before the aurora’s appearance, intense solar flares erupted on the Sun, releasing massive amounts of energy. This triggered geomagnetic storms, disrupting Earth’s magnetic field and leading to auroras typically observed at high latitudes. In response to Dr. Kataoka’s appeal, citizens submitted observations from a wide geographic range, including Hyōgo Prefecture in southern Japan, highlighting the aurora’s unusually broad impact zone.