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The Hong Kong Observatory today (February 23) launched an enhanced space weather webpage.
The webpage includes information on the impact of space weather on people's daily lives, as well as the latest warnings of the US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) on adverse space weather so that timely precautionary measures can be taken.
"The World Meteorological Organisation (WMO) has recently included space weather in its work schedule. As a member of the WMO, it is necessary for the Observatory to enhance the knowledge of the public on this topic, which has gained attention in recent years, so that appropriate action can be taken when an extreme space weather event occurs," Director of the Hong Kong Observatory, Dr Lee Boon-ying said.
Professor Chan Kwing-lam, an expert in solar physics from the Department of Mathematics, Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, welcomed the webpage enhancement. "Hong Kong is located in the low latitudes and the impact of adverse space weather should be minimal. However, as the city has close ties with other parts of the world, any problems with the satellite systems can lead to telecommunications and navigation problems that may affect Hong Kong and even hamper aviation safety. Hence, the effects of space weather should not be taken lightly," he said.
The Observatory launched the space weather webpage in 2004 as part of its efforts in public education. People can browse the webpage on www.weather.gov.hk/education/edu05spacewx/ele_spwx_curwarn_e.htm.
Ends/Tuesday, February 23, 2010
Issued at HKT 17:21
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