Auroral-Region Dynamics Determined with the Chatanika Radar.
Abstract
An extensive body of data from the Chatanika Incoherent Scatter Radar was acquired between 1971 and 1978, and has been analyzed to learn about the winds in the upper atmosphere in the auroral region. These data have been supplemented by a body of correlative optical data from the Fabry-Perot interferometer operated by the Michigan Auroral Observatory. Most of these data pertain to winds in the lower F region between 180 and 200 km. The wind in the magnetic meridian has been examined, and for the first time, the radar and optical techniques have been compared. Good agreement was found for averaged and for simultaneous observations. When averaged for 24 hours, a large net equatorward wind is found. During the night, this wind increases with magnetic activity. Because few summer and winter observations exist, seasonal variations cannot be derived. But the existing observations differ from those made at the equinoxes in the manner predicted by theory.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Nov 01, 1982
- Accession Number
- ADA127042
Entities
People
- Vincent B. Wickwar
Organizations
- SRI International