6–10 Jul 2026
University of the Western Cape
Africa/Johannesburg timezone
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Modelling Earth’s magnetic field over the South Atlantic Anomaly region using Swarm satellite and ground-based data

8 Jul 2026, 09:50
20m
Lecture Hall C3 (University of the Western Cape)

Lecture Hall C3

University of the Western Cape

Oral Presentation Track D - Astrophysics & Space Science Astrophysics & Space Science

Speaker

Mr Sanele Lionel Khanyile (South African National Space Agency and Rhodes University)

Description

This study investigates geomagnetic field variations over the South Atlantic Anomaly (SAA) using three regional models developed with the Revised Spherical Cap Harmonic Analysis (R-SCHA). The combined models cover a broad region from 90°W to 35°E in longitude and from 5°S to 49°S in latitude. To effectively capture spatial variability, the study area is divided into three overlapping spherical caps representing the western (South America), central (South Atlantic Ocean), and eastern (southern Africa) sectors. Each region is modelled using a 35° semi-aperture cap centred respectively at 71°W, 29°W, and 14°E, all along 27°S latitude. Preliminary results will be presented, highlighting regions within the SAA experiencing the most rapid magnetic field changes and providing insight into the ongoing restructuring of the anomaly. The analysis will further quantify the contributions of individual magnetic field components to the observed weakening. Particular attention will be given to the development of a second intensity minimum within the SAA. The study explores whether the anomaly will continue to expand, fragment into multiple minima, reorganize, or eventually stabilize.

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Author

Mr Sanele Lionel Khanyile (South African National Space Agency and Rhodes University)

Co-authors

John Bosco Habarulema (South African National Space Agency) Dr Emmanuel Nahayo (South African National Space Agency)

Presentation materials