Synopsis of Ionization Sources in the Mesosphere and Stratosphere, With Particular Emphasis Given to the Path of the 26 February 1979 Solar Eclipse.
Abstract
The sources of ionization in the mesosphere and stratosphere may be placed in three categories: solar radiation (photons), galactic cosmic rays, and precipitating energetic particles of solar and terrestrial origin and modulation. The ion-pair production rate Q (ion pairs per cubic centimeter per second) due to x-rays and EUV radiation is a function of latitude, time of day, solar declination, and the solar sunspot cycle. Solar radiation dominates the Q term in the upper mesosphere during the day. Galactic cosmic rays are the major source of ion pairs at night throughout the stratosphere and lower mesosphere and even into the upper mesosphere during geomagnetically quiet conditions. The Q term due to galactic cosmic rays also displays a dependence on latitude and the solar cycle. Energetic particles (electrons > 40 keV, protons > 1 MeV, alpha particles > 5 MeV) can be the dominant source of ion pairs for short times in the stratosphere and mesosphere, competing with even solar radiation under some circumstances. The effects are more prominent at higher latitudes, particularly for protons.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Oct 01, 1976
- Accession Number
- ADA032698
Entities
People
- Melvin G. Heaps
Organizations
- Ballistic Research Laboratory