Charged Particle Distributions and Electric Field Measurements Taken by S3-3.
Abstract
Comparisons of electron and proton distribution functions are made with DC electric field measurements as the S3-3 satellite crossed a series of high latitude acceleration regions near local dusk on July 29, 1976. Potential drops from parallel electric fields are inferred from charged particle distributions using adiabatic theory and compared with potentials calculated from measured perpendicular electric fields. There exists a one-to-one spatial relationship between strong DC electric field enhancements in the form of electric field reversals and acceleration signatures of auroral particles. From the charged particle and electric field analysis, we conclude that electric fields, parallel to B, can extend above and below the satellite altitude near 7500 km when strong electrostatic field reversals are encountered. Within the uncertainties of our analysis, the potential drop below the satellite is comparable to the potential calculated from the individual electrostatic structures crossed by the satellite. There are, in addition, particle signatures that imply a source of strong acceleration was located above and relatively close to the satellite. These accelerated electrons are coincident with auroral hiss and ion conics.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Oct 01, 1982
- Accession Number
- ADA120562
Entities
People
- David J. Gorney
- Donald R. Croley Jr.
- Joseph F. Fennell
- Paul F. Mizera
Organizations
- The Aerospace Corporation