Spectral Variations of the L alpha Sky: A Final Report of Observations from OGO-6.
Abstract
Data obtained in June 1969 from OGO-6 (400 x 1100 km, inclination 82 deg) reveal a consistent pattern in the observed variations of the spectral width of Lyman alpha radiation as seen by a sky-scanning photometer equipped with a resonance filter. These data have been interpreted in terms of the diurnal variation of the exospheric hydrogen temperature showing a temperature maximum near 1800 hours local time and a dawn-to-dusk difference of 200K. Evidence is presented that indicates the major source of the observed variation is local hydrogen. An analysis based on this assumption is given. Sky maps are presented that show the apparent temperature distribution across the sky, and, from these, a region is identified that appears to be aligned with the earth's magnetotail and consistently appears as a 'hot' region. The contribution of the external uv sources is discussed. (Author)
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Mar 01, 1972
- Accession Number
- AD0736816
Entities
People
- Malcolm A. Clark
- Paul H. Metzger
Organizations
- The Aerospace Corporation