The Kilometric Radio Emission Spectrum: Relationship to Auroral Acceleration Processes.
Abstract
Satellite measurements have now confirmed that intense radio emissions called auroral kilometric radiation are generated at altitudes of 2 to 3 RE over the auroral regions. These radio emissions are believed to be generated by Doppler-shifted cyclotron radiation from the electrons involved in the auroral acceleration process. Using current theories for the generation of this radiation we discuss the possibilities for obtaining information on the auroral acceleration processes from the spectrum of this radiation. For example, under certain conditions it is shown that the low frequency cutoff provides a direct indication of the upper altitude limit of the acceleration region. Also, certain drifting features in the spectrum can be interpreted in terms of the propagation of shock-like disturbances along the auroral field lines at velocities near the ion-acoustic speed. (Author)
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jan 31, 1981
- Accession Number
- ADA096320
Entities
People
- Donald A. Gurnett
- R. R. Anderson
Organizations
- University of Iowa