VARIATIONS IN EXOSPHERIC DENSITY AT HEIGHTS NEAR 1100 KM, DERIVED FROM SATELLITE ORBITS.
Abstract
In an earlier paper, values of exospheric density were obtained from the orbit of Echo 2 for the years 1964-65. The results indicated a semi-annual variation in density by a factor of between 2 and 3, considerably larger than predicted by existing atmospheric models. These studies have now been extended to the beginning of 1967, using both Echo 2 and Calsphere 1, to show how the density is responding to increasing solar activity. Variations in density during 1964 have been analysed in more detail. The long-term variation associated with the solar cycle and the short-term variations associated with magnetic and solar disturbances agree with the variations expected on the basis of current models. The semi-annual variation is persisting to higher levels of solar activity, and, although its amplitude is diminishing, the factor of variation was still 1.6 in 1966. (Author)
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Aug 01, 1967
- Accession Number
- AD0665112
Entities
People
- Diana W. Scott
- G. E. Cook
Organizations
- Royal Aircraft Establishment