Data & Reports - Geomagnetism

Data

Real-time magnetogram from Canberra Observatory

A magnetogram is a chart that shows how elements of the Earth's magnetic field change with time, typically over a 1-day period, at a given location. A magnetogram showing how the magnetic field at the Canberra Magnetic Observatory has changed over the last 24 hours is displayed. Data for this display are updated every 10 minutes.

Magnetic Field (AGRF) Calculation

The Australian Geomagnetic Reference Field (AGRF) is a mathematical model of the geomagnetic field for the Australian region and is valid until 2010. The model is a useful tool for compass navigators such as bushwalkers, orienteers, mariners and pilots or anyone who needs to convert compass bearings to true bearings and those who need to know the magnitude or direction of the geomagnetic vector in the Australian region.

Minute Values - Data & Plots

By selecting a magnetic observatory location, and a period of between 1 and 31 days, magnetic data can be viewed online in the form of 1-minute data values in the X, Y and Z (east, north and vertical) components or screen plots in any of the D, H, Z, X, Y, F or I components.

Geomagnetic Indices

Geomagnetic indices have been developed to characterise the variability of the Earth's magnetic field, in all its complexity, in a single number. There are many such indices that each characterise a different aspect or time-frame of the dynamic geomagnetic field. The most widely used of these is the k index, a quasi-logarithmic index of geomagnetic activity relative to an estimated undisturbed or regular quiet day variation for the recording site. Links to sites with other magnetic indices and information can also be accessed from this page.

[back to top]

Reports

Geomagnetism Report

The Australian Geomagnetism Report series describes instrumentation and activities, and presents monthly and annual mean magnetic values, plots of hourly mean magnetic values and K indices at the magnetic observatories and repeat stations operated by Geoscience Australia.

Currently available online are the Australian Geomagnetism Reports for years from 1999.