The space plasma theory group at the Hermanus Magnetic Observatory (HMO) is a small but active group which conducts fundamental research in the fields of space physics and plasma physics. Briefly, space physics, or solar-terrestrial physics, is the study of the sun-earth interaction, i.e., the interaction of the earth and its magnetic field with the solar wind (an astrophysical plasma carrying its own weak, interplanetary magnetic field).

Primary areas of research include: waves and instabilities in space plasmas; modifications to waves and instabilities by superthermal particles in the form of high energy tails (modelled using the kappa distribution); dusty plasmas and waves and instabilities therein; grain-grain gravitational effects in dusty plasmas; nonlinear plasma theory including both coherent (e.g., solitons and double layers) and turbulent processes (e.g., weak turbulence theory and velocity space diffusion of charged particles). Members of the Space Group frequently interact with the Geomagnetism Group a the HMO.

The group offers post-graduate, i.e., MSc and PhD study in a wide variety of topics in theoretical space plasma physics and encourages applications from suitably qualified individuals. Post doctoral study positions are also available. Interested persons should contact Dr Peter Sutcliffe, manager of the Hermanus Magnetic Observatory.