Jasper System: GISTDA’s Space Weather Forecasting and Monitoring Solar Threats

On the Earth, the concept of 'weather forecasting' involves predicting daily atmospheric conditions. This process utilizes data and technology to compute atmospheric changes, enabling timely preparation for various situations.

Similarly, in space, despite the absence of a breathable atmosphere like the Earth's, the concept of 'space weather forecasting,' or simply space weather, exists.

Currently, Thailand's Geo-Informatics and Space Technology Development Agency (Public Organization), or GISTDA, has developed the Space Weather Forecasting System named “Jasper” . This system is dedicated to continuously monitoring space conditions and reporting the potential risks to Thailand.

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   Space weather refers to disturbances in the space environment, primarily caused by activities on the Sun, the sole star in our solar system. These phenomena range from the solar wind, a continuous stream of high-energy particles emanating from the Sun, solar flares, and solar storms that are potent enough to impact the Earth.

Dr. Sittiporn Channumsin Director of space technology research center : S-TREC. explained, "Our Earth possesses two primary protective layers: the magnetosphere and the atmosphere. Solar activity can impact both these defenses, necessitating our monitoring of solar flares, which have the potential to disrupt communication signals. This year (2025) is anticipated to be a period of heightened solar activity, known as “solar maximum”, within the 11-year solar cycle."

   Consequently, in May 2025, a significant geomagnetic storm occurred. This event was triggered by a large Coronal Mass Ejection (CME) originating from sunspot region AR4100 on the Sun. It led to a G4-level disturbance in the Earth's magnetic field, as per NOAA's scale. GISTDA closely monitored the situation and observed a G3-level (moderate) geomagnetic storm over Thailand.

   While geomagnetic storms do not directly impact humans, they can generate auroras at high latitudes, disrupt satellite operations, and potentially pose risks to terrestrial power grids. The  Jasper  system and GISTDA personnel diligently monitored space weather conditions until the geomagnetic storm subsided to normal levels, with no reported damage in Thailand.

   Space weather forecasting relies on the collection of data from satellites and ground-based stations to track solar activities. This data are then analyzed by space weather system and forecasters who predict the potential effects of these solar activities on the Earth. This involves modeling solar wind propagation and assessing potential impacts before reporting the warnings or suggestions.

   GISTDA further elaborated, "We aim to leverage Artificial Intelligence (AI) to enhance the monitor on solar phenomena analyzing and warning the potential impacts to Thailand. Some events may originate on the far side of the Sun, meaning their ejected mass and particles are not directed towards the Earth. Nevertheless, GISTDA and other relevant agencies will maintain constant vigilance."

    Thailand's national space weather forecasting system, Jasper , operated by GISTDA's Space Technology Research Center (S-TREC) in Chonburi, continuously monitors solar changes – the primary factor influencing Earth's space weather. Its mission is to ensure the stability of the nation's space infrastructure, act as a frontline for space hazard alerts, and provide crucial data to relevant agencies, enabling them to prepare effective responses.

   Today, the field of space activities is exceptionally diverse, with various specializations distinctly complementing one another to enhance Thailand's space capabilities. This collaborative environment fosters knowledge transfer, stimulates research, drives innovation in space technology, and cultivates new generations of talent for continuous space exploration endeavors.