The Next Decade of Discovery in Solar and Space Physics: Exploring and Safeguarding Humanity's Home in Space

Groundbreaking advances in solar and space physics have provided key insights into the dynamic physical processes on the Sun and its influence on Earth, the near-Earth space environment, other planets in our solar system, and beyond. As we look to the next decade, future discoveries in the field will expand our knowledge of the cosmos and better prepare us for the impact of space weather events on critical systems and humanity. The Next Decade of Discovery in Solar and Space Physics: Exploring and Safeguarding Humanity's Home in Space, a National Academies' decadal survey, presents a prioritized strategy for basic and applied research to advance scientific understanding of the heliosphere and the origins of space weather, the Sun's interactions with other bodies in the solar system, and the interplanetary and interstellar mediums. Table of Contents Front Matter Summary 1 Solar and Space Physics 2 New and Emerging Frontiers in Science 3 Solar and Space Physics in the Service of Humanity 4 Toward a Thriving Solar and Space Physics Community 5 Comprehensive Research Strategy: A HelioSystems Laboratory and Supporting Research and Technology 6 Summary of Research Strategy and Budget Implications Appendix A: Statement of Task Appendix B: Report of the Panel on the Physics of the Sun and Heliosphere Appendix C: Report of the Panel on the Physics of Magnetospheres Appendix D: Report of the Panel on the Physics of Ionospheres, Thermospheres, and Mesospheres Appendix E: Report of the Panel on Space Weather Science and Applications Appendix F: Report of the Panel on the State of the Profession: A Vision for a People-Centered Solar and Space Physics (Heliophysics) Community Appendix G: Technical, Risk, and Cost Evaluation Appendix H: Acronyms and Abbreviations Appendix I: Committee and Panel Biographical Information