FDEWS Documentation
Technical reference for the Forbush Decrease Early Warning System. For an overview and validation data, see the main FDEWS page.
Learn about FDEWS, view validation data, and request pilot access
View current FDEWS operational state and environmental conditions
What is FDEWS?
FDEWS (Forbush Decrease Early Warning System) is a space weather monitoring service that classifies conditions associated with Forbush Decrease events: sudden drops in cosmic ray intensity caused by solar activity.
FDEWS continuously monitors multiple space weather data sources and classifies current conditions into operational states, enabling satellite operators, power grid operators, and other critical infrastructure to make informed decisions.
Operational States
Conditions are stable. Normal operations may proceed with confidence.
A coronal mass ejection has been detected heading toward Earth. Event possible in 24-72 hours.
Geomagnetic storm conditions are developing. A Forbush Decrease is more likely.
Cosmic ray intensity drop detected. A Forbush Decrease event is currently in progress.
Data Sources
| Source | Data | Update Frequency |
|---|---|---|
| NOAA SWPC | Kp index, Solar radiation | 15 minutes |
| NASA DONKI | CME tracking | Hourly |
| Oulu Neutron Monitor | Cosmic ray intensity | Hourly |
| Proprietary Indicators | Multi-day leading signals | Daily |
Use Cases
Schedule sensitive maneuvers during QUIET periods, activate safe modes when ACTIVE
Pre-position resources when WATCH, monitor GIC exposure during ACTIVE events
Assess radiation exposure risk, adjust routing when conditions warrant
Protect radiation-sensitive experiments, schedule calibrations during QUIET periods
The "QUIET" Signal
Traditional space weather services only warn about potential danger. FDEWS also provides a QUIET status indicating stable conditions, enabling confident operational decisions during the 90%+ of time when no event is occurring.
QUIET is assigned when multiple public environmental feeds indicate stable conditions. Exact internal scoring and thresholds are reserved for pilot partners.
Compliance & Disclaimers
FDEWS is a risk classification service that categorizes current space weather conditions.
FDEWS is an informational tool for operational awareness.
FDEWS is not a prediction or forecast service. We classify, not predict.
FDEWS is not affiliated with NOAA, NASA, or ESA. Independent commercial offering.
Users should integrate FDEWS with official forecasts and internal procedures. Official forecasts: NOAA SWPC
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Research use only. Not investment or operational advice. Past performance ≠ future results.