Plain Language Summary of Outcomes

Electromagnetic ion cyclotron (EMIC) waves are 0.1–5 Hz waves generated by unstable ion distributions in the Earth’s magnetosphere owing to compression of the dayside magnetosphere during solar wind pressure pulses or ion injections from the night side magnetotail. These waves have the potential to interact with highly energetic radiation belt electrons and ring current ions thereby precipitating them to high latitude atmosphere. They can hence impact the space environment of satellites, as well as the dynamics of the middle atmosphere chemistry. Hence it is imperative to understand how, when and where these waves occur and, thus, when we expect to see their impacts. The ISSI team of international experts on “Geomagnetic activity and solar cycle dependence of Electromagnetic Ion Cyclotron (EMIC) wave activity and wave parameter in the Earth’s magnetosphere“ was convened in Bern, Switzerland in order to develop understanding of these key aspects. The team combines theory, observations, and computational models of the EMIC waves and its impacts on energetic particle precipitation. The team has analyzed results from recent space missions and compared it with previous available statistical studies to provide a comprehensive understanding of when and where these waves occur and their relation to geomagnetic storms and different storm phases. The team discussed and explored the role of EMIC waves in the radiation belt dynamics with respect to the storms and storm phases during varied solar cycle activity providing progress in the understanding the complex dynamics of Earth’s magnetosphere.  The results of the team’s collaborative work are being published as articles in reputed scientific journals, including a joint review paper, currently in preparation for publication.