Hermanus Magnetic Observatory

Phone +27 (0) 28 312 1196 Fax: +27 (0) 28 312 2039

Home	Profile Contact Us Links Directions

Minister Mangena
visits HMO

HMO Exhibition at
Fernkloof Flower
Festival

VISION OF THE HMO
The HMO’s vision is to be a centre of excellence in geomagnetic field related research, information, and services, which stimulates collaboration with researchers and students from South Africa and other countries.

The Hermanus Magnetic Observatory (HMO) is a research facility of the National Research Foundation (http://www.nrf.ac.za), which is an autonomous science council responsible for research and human resources development in South Africa. The HMO is situated in the picturesque village of Hermanus in the Western Cape (http://www.hermanus.co.za). It functions as an active participant in the worldwide network of magnetic observatories, which monitor and model variations of the Earth’s magnetic field.

The HMO consists of four operational groups:

The Space Physics group carries out forefront space
      physics research in order to add to the present
      understanding of plasma behaviour in the Earth's
      magnetosphere and it's impact on Earth.

The Geomagnetism group is responsible for studying
      and monitoring variations of the Earth's magnetic field,
      the derivation of geomagnetic field models and indices,
      and the distribution of geomagnetic field information.

The Technology group utilises the unique magnetic field
      calibration facilities and infrastructure, located in a
      magnetically clean environment, to provide quality
      controlled magnetic field and sensor related services to
      clients on a commercial basis.

The Science Outreach group strives to create a better
      understanding of geomagnetism and space physics
      amongst school teachers and pupils, in order to
      stimulate the development and promotion of science
      and technology awareness.