Ursigram

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An ursigram (also URSIgram , from URSI = International Union of Radio Science ) is a transmission format developed for the rapid and standardized exchange of data on solar activity and geomagnetism . Originally it was used to disseminate this information via (radio) telex ( telex ).

Working method

In an ursigram standardized data on solar, cosmic and geomagnetic measured values, which are recorded by terrestrial sensors or satellites, are presented in the form of defined text lines. In addition, an ursigram also provides a forecast of the future development (forecast) of these values ​​for a short period of time (several days to weeks). The following are to be mentioned in particular:

However, depending on the area of ​​application, it may also contain additional or other scientifically relevant data.

history

The word creation is an acronym from the name of the Union of Radio-Science Internationale , the organization that developed this format in 1930 and first used it for distribution. Nowadays, Ursigrams are provided by the International Space Environment Service (ISES; in Germany, the German Society for Solar Energy ) with the support of other international scientific institutions ( FAGS , URSI, IAU , IUGG ). The measured values ​​are recorded by several international organizations worldwide (e.g. by the Solar Influences Data Analysis Center (SIDC) of the Royal Observatory of Belgium or the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) of the USA).

use

Ursigrams are used by professional radio users and radio amateurs to determine the propagation conditions of short waves on earth. Scientific institutions also use this data for their own purposes (research, warning services). An ursigram can be systematically compared with a weather fax, which is important for shipping, for example , even if an ursigram does not contain any images. Although the dissemination of information via the Internet is faster and more common these days, the Ursigramm has survived as a standardized format. Software-supported solutions also use the Ursigram to record, evaluate and graphically display this data.

The format is not conclusively regulated; it evolves with the needs of the users. To this end, suggestions for changes can be submitted to ISES.

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