Abstract
Polar Cap PC) indices, PCN North based on magnetic observations from
Qaanaaq (THL) in Greenland and PCS South based on magnetic data from
Vostok in Antarctica, are very useful indices for studies of solar
wind-magnetosphere interactions and for space weather monitoring and
forecasts. PCN indices are issued from the Danish Space Research
Institute (DTU Space) while PCS indices are issued from the Arctic and
Antarctic Research Institute (AARI) in St Petersburg. Unfortunately,
series of invalid PCS values have been provided from AARI and used in a
number of publications issued since the PC index concept was endorsed by
the International Association of Geomagnetism and Aeronomy (IAGA) in
2013. The present contribution defines the invalidating features of the
PCS indices in question, conveys examples, and discusses the
applications in peer-reviewed publications.