STEREO/ACE Observations of Suprathermal and Energetic Ion Spikes in
Interplanetary Shocks
Abstract
Interplanetary shocks have been long known sources of suprathermal and
energetic ions, and their origin will contribute in unveiling the origin
of cosmic rays. Sudden ion intensity enhancements in the form of spikes
that last anywhere between minutes to tens of seconds are observed
during the passage of such shocks. Identification of spikes with peak
intensities lasting ~1 min surveyed in over 304 shocks
from January 2007 – December 2014 observed by the SEPT (Solar Electron
and Proton Telescope) onboard STEREO (Solar Terrestrial Relations
Observatory) A/B Spacecraft was performed using a new Python Code,
followed by visual inspection. We also inspected the database of EPAM
(Electron, Proton, and Alpha Monitor) onboard ACE (Advanced Composition
Explorer) from 2003 to 2014. We present and discuss the statistical
analysis of the shock spikes as a function of parameters such as shock
normal angle and Mach number. The Python code can be used to analyse
other databases such as WIND and this further paves the way for the
employment of ML techniques to replace visual inspection. Such studies
are vital in performing exhaustive and in-depth assessment of shock
associated particle events.