On the Most Interesting Solar-Wind and Cosmic-Ray Events in February–April 2023

Abstract

The article focuses on identifying and studying several large-scale solar-wind disturbances and associated Forbush effects in the first months of 2023. Variations of the cosmic-ray flux (with 10 GV rigidity) are obtained using the Global Survey Method with data from the global network of neutron monitors. The beginning of 2023 is characterized by a relatively large number of Forbush effects; the largest ones were recorded on 26 – 28 February, 15 – 16 March, 23 – 25 March, and 23 – 24 April. These events and their relationship with solar-wind parameters, geomagnetic activity, and associated solar sources are discussed in detail. In terms of the number and magnitude of interplanetary disturbances and corresponding cosmic-ray variations, February–April 2023 proves to be the first active period since the beginning of Solar Cycle 25.