Quasi-periodic variations of low energy cosmic rays

Cosmic rays(CR)play an important role in space weather-related studies.Their temporal variability,both of a quasi-periodic character as well as an irregular one,has been studied from ground-based direct measurements,as well as from cosmogenic nuclides,over a long time.We attempt to describe the current knowledge of selected quasi-periodicities in CR flux in the energy range above the atmospheric threshold,from direct measurements.The power spectrum density(PSD)of the CR time series as measured by neutron monitors(NMs)and by muon detectors has a rather complicated character.Along with the shape(slope)of the PSD,knowledge of the contribution of quasi-periodic variations(q-per)to the CR signal is of importance for the modulation,as well as for checking the links of CR to space weather,and/or to space climate effects.The rotation of the Earth and solar rotation cause two types of mechanisms behind the certain q-per observed in secondary CR on the Earth’s surface.Solar activity and solar magnetic field cyclicities contribute to the q-per signals in CR if studied over a longer time.The complexity of the spatial structure of the interplanetary magnetic field(IMF)and its evolution within the heliosphere,in addition to the changes in the geomagnetic field,cause variability in contributions of the q-per in CR.Wavelet spectra are useful tools for checking the fine structure of q-per and their temporal behaviour.Over a long time NMs and muon telescopes provide information about q-per in CR.