Plasma Instabilities in the Equatorial F-Region: Natural and Artificial Mechanisms.
Abstract
Accumulating information regarding the equatorial F-region ionosphere has proven it to be a particularly important domain for the communications and ionospheric sciences as well as investigation of fundamental plasma processes that have counterparts in atmospheric releases and controlled laboratory experiments. This wide range of interest has in recent years brought considerable intensity into equatorial investigations with major technical, scientific, and engineering advances contributing to our current understanding and future plans for adaptive communication system design and ionospheric modification and control. Rapid advances require occasional synthesis in order to draw proper perspectives and establish an improved definition of near-term and longer range plans. This document bears that objective, particularly as it relates to radar, rocket, and satellite studies of the turbulent ionospheric plasma state, the theoretical and computational descriptions, and chemical releases for controlled ionospheric modifications. Emphasis is placed on important relationships involving spread F, naturally-occurring ionospheric bite-outs, and artificial ionospheric holes. Current understanding is reviewed, deficiencies identified, and future programs involving the Naval Research Laboratory are discussed.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Apr 17, 1979
- Accession Number
- ADA068040
Entities
People
- D. N. Walker
- Edward P. Szuszczewicz
- Gary W. Sjolander
- Julian C. Holmes
- Sidney L. Ossakow
Organizations
- United States Naval Research Laboratory