INTERMAGNET: worldwide near-real-time geomagnetic observatory data

A European Space Weather programme will rely on the availability of near real time data to monitor and predict the Earth’s response to changes in solar activity and conditions in the near-Earth space environment. Some relevant datasets are derived from ground-based geomagnetic field measurements and, through the INTERMAGNET programme, magnetic observatories are encouraged to send one-minute data in near real time to data collection centres designated Geomagnetic Information Nodes (GINs). Many observatories send data to a GIN within one hour, some within minutes. In 2001 there were 80 INTERMAGNET observatories worldwide and six GINs, two located in Europe. GINs also act as data supply centres, with data delivery by electronic mail or by direct download from web pages hosted at GINs (http://www.intermagnet.org). The number and distribution of INTERMAGNET observatories, and the capability to deliver data, means that the programme is well-positioned to play a significant role in providing space weather services.