EQUATORIAL LOCI OF THE EARTH'S MAGNETIC FIELD AND COSMIC RAY PARAMETERS.
Abstract
In addition to the magnetic dip and geomagnetic dipole equators, other magnetic field parameters can be used to define other equators. A total intensity minimum and the horizontal intensity maximum mark equators that differ notably from the dip and dipole equators. The locus of points where the orientation of the magnetic field lines is referred to the mean noon altitude of the sun at equinox, rather than to the earth's surface as is ordinarily done, coincides well with the dip equator and the Katz, Meyer, and Simpson aircraft cosmic ray equator. Other loci referred to the noon sun at solstice indicate the possibility of a seasonal latitudinal change in the cosmic ray equator. This change is in agreement with seasonal changes noted in measurements made on some equatorial crossings. Longitudes of maximum symmetry of the earth's field as determined from relative positions of the equatorial loci are indicated near the Hawaiian and the Philippine Islands. The Capetown anomaly, of interest in radiation belt studies, is clearly shown by the total intensity minimum equator. Positions of the symmetrical field equators are determined from the first-order terms of a Fourier analysis of the latitudes of the various equators. A numerical evaluation of the variability and separation of the different equators is also made. (Author)
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Mar 01, 1964
- Accession Number
- AD0601055
Entities
People
- E. J. Chernosky
- J. M. Collins
- M. P. Hagan
Organizations
- Air Force Cambridge Research Laboratories