Impact of the Flood on Data Collection
The recent flood at Stanford University’s server room has significantly impacted the data collection process from NASA’s Solar Dynamics Observatory (SDO) and the Interface Region Imaging Spectrograph (IRIS) spacecraft. The flood, caused by a broken 10-centimeter cooling water line, has resulted in extensive water damage to the equipment.
Consequences for Data Processing
The Joint Scientific Operations Center (JSOC) at Stanford University, which houses the SDO’s data processing equipment, has been severely affected by the flood. The center will be out of service until 2025, and scientists will not be able to process much of the data collected by the SDO and IRIS spacecraft during this time.
Spacecraft Operations Unaffected
Fortunately, the flood has not affected the operation of the SDO and IRIS spacecraft. The data capture systems of all three instruments continue to function, and no incoming data is expected to be lost. The spacecraft can still transmit information home as expected, although the data processing will be delayed.
Importance of the SDO and IRIS Spacecraft
The SDO and IRIS spacecraft play a crucial role in understanding the Sun’s behavior and its impact on the solar system. The SDO studies the Sun’s magnetic field, activity cycles, and impacts on the solar system, while the IRIS spacecraft helps scientists study the plasma flow towards the corona and heliosphere of the Sun.
Availability of Data
Although the data is not available for processing, it has not been lost. The data continues to be collected, but it is not being processed. Some data, such as HMI data, is currently stored in New Mexico, but real-time data needed for space weather, space environment data products, and mission planning is inaccessible.
Alternative Data Sources
IRIS makes its data available online in near real-time, and data prior to November 22 is available. Incomplete AIA and HMI data can also be accessed from various sources.
“At this time, it is unclear how long it will take to assess the damage, repair the equipment, and complete the recovery,” reads an FAQ attached to the update. “We know the damage is extensive and (repairs) will not be completed until 2025.”