Geomagnetism
BGS Research
The BGS’s geomagnetism science capability measures, records, models and interprets variations in the Earth’s magnetic field. Our data and research help to develop scientific understanding of the solid Earth and its atmospheric and space environments and help to extend our knowledge of geomagnetic hazards and their effects. We also provide a range of geomagnetic data, products and services to industry and academia and we use our insights and knowledge to inform the public, government and industry.
Making a measurement of compass direction near King Edward Point Observatory on South Georgia. © BGS/UKRI.
Fieldwork at the Falkland Islands Magnetic Observatory. © BGS/UKRI.
A BGS model of magnetic field strength (in nano-Tesla) in 2020. © BGS/UKRI.
The aurora borealis seen in Iceland in September 2018. © BGS/UKRI
Making the daily magnetic activity forecast. © BGS/UKRI.
The instrument chamber at Lerwick Magnetic Observatory. © BGS/UKRI.
Our remit includes continuous geomagnetic monitoring across the UK. We therefore operate three geomagnetic observatories in the UK, located in Lerwick (Shetland), Eskdalemuir (Scottish Borders) and Hartland (north Devon). We also operate magnetic observatories overseas: at Ascension Island and Sable Island (Canada), Port Stanley (Falkland Islands) and King Edward Point (South Georgia). We also oversee and maintain magnetic observatory operations at Prudhoe Bay, Alaska (USA) and Fort McMurray, Alberta (Canada).
Our observatory work and the data we collect are just part of our core function, which is:
Long-term geomagnetic monitoring and allied research to improve our understanding of the Earth and its geomagnetic processes, environments and hazards.
In support of this core function, we aim to be recognised internationally as a world leader in:
- measuring and recording the Earth’s natural magnetic field
- modelling the magnetic field and understanding its various sources
- modelling and understanding geomagnetic hazard, a component of the space-weather hazard to technology and society
- delivering tailored geomagnetic data, products and services to academia, business and the public
- providing knowledge and information for all sectors of society on geomagnetism science: what it tells us about the Earth and how it can be used in practical ways
To find out more, please visit geomag.bgs.ac.uk.
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Related news
Observing magnetic fields: 100 years of data
02/08/2022
Marking the centenary of the Lerwick Geophysical Observatory.
UK’s geomagnetic blind spots tackled with new observatories
28/07/2022
Three new geomagnetic observatories have been installed across the UK to fill in the country’s ‘blind spots’ and tackle the risk posed by space weather.
The Great North Run
28/05/2021
The directions of true, grid and magnetic north will, for the first time, coincide at various locations in Great Britain between 2022 and 2026.
Geomagnetism with Sarah Reay
10/02/2021
Sarah Reay discusses why we study the Earth’s magnetic field, the best location for a geomagnetic observatory, and tips for spotting the Aurora Borealis.
