Speaker
Description
Railways rely on interdependent systems for power, navigation, communications, and signalling, many of which are at risk of disruption by space weather. Understanding how and to what extent space weather can impact these systems is crucial to maintaining the safe and punctual operation of railway networks.
Among the many examples of potential impacts, power supply failures would leave trains on electrified lines stranded and can disrupt signalling operations, while geomagnetically induced currents introduced into the AC-electrified overhead line equipment can affect a train’s on-board transformer. Disruption to GNSS can interfere with a high-speed train’s tilt control system, limiting its speed and leading to delays. Loss of service of GSM-R (Global System for Mobile Communications Railway), which is used for communications and is an integral part of the ETCS (European Train Control System), would disrupt operations. DC track circuit signalling systems on AC-electrified lines are susceptible to interference from geomagnetically induced currents, which can lead to delays or, in the worst case, collisions.
This presentation aims to provide an overview on our understanding of space weather impacts on railway systems, highlight recent work, and identify potential avenues for future study.
| Do you plan to attend in-person or online? | In-person |
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