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CAP/NASA Aurora Watch
Newest CAP/NASA mission supports data collection on aurora sightings
Get ready for Civil Air Patrol’s newest CAP/NASA mission! The CAP Aurora Watch is an AE Mission that supports the Aurorasaurus Project and NASA Science Activation.
During this mission, individuals and data collection teams will support scientists by observing the sky and reporting sightings of the aurora, also known as the Northern Lights. The aurora phenomenon can interfere with satellites, power grids, and even communication systems such as cell phones.
For this mission, we will be making observations and taking photographs of the sky during geomagnetic storms. Volunteers will monitor local and space weather forecasts, observe the night sky, and may
assist in verifying reports submitted by others. This mission offers a unique opportunity to explore the connection between Earth and the Sun while supporting real scientific research. These reports improve the accuracy and speed of aurora alerts, often faster and more precise than computer models alone. By reporting both sightings and non-sightings of the aurora using the Aurorasaurus app or website, we will be helping scientists better understand solar storms and how to improve the models they use to predict and study where auroras can be seen.
There is no registration due date; this is a rolling registration that will continue long-term. To participate in this mission, CAP members must:
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Be at least 14 years old
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Have a digital camera, cell phone camera or tablet capable of taking photos
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Have a complete CAP Field Uniform (such as ABUs or CAP Polo for Senior Leaders)
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Have completed your GES (General Emergency Services 116 and 117 part 1-3) Training
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Have completed Senior Leader Level 1 or Cadet Achievement 1
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Have completed 2 hours of Aurora Watch Mission-specific training.
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Stay involved in the mission for at least 4 months.
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Open to members in all 52 Wings
For cadet participants, a parent or guardian must attend a 1-hour training session before the cadet can participate in the mission at home.
Complete Aurora Watch Mission: Technical Training in Absorb to be eligible for activation. (To access the course directly with the button below, log in to eServices > Online Learning > Absorb before clicking the button below.)
Apply to be Aurora Watch Mission Staff here.
Please email citizenscience@caphnq.gov with your questions.
