The Polar Ionosphere and Interplanetary Field.
Abstract
The model ionosphere was developed that is coupled to a magnetospheric model for investigating time dependent behavior of the Polar F-region ionosphere in response to varying interplanetary magnetic field (IMF) configurations. The numerical ionospheric model covers a latitude range from 50 to 90 degrees and an altitude range of 150 to 600 KM. The purpose of the magnetospheric model is to define the location and geometry of the polar cap, which is defined as the region of open field lines. The polar cap configuration has been coupled to a model electric field pattern that in turn may vary in size and strength in response to the IMF. The ionosphere model assumes only oxygen ions; the ion density is solved vertically along many magnetic field lines as they move horizontally under the influence of the large-scale convective electric fields. The lower boundary is defined by the local chemistry and the upper boundary condition has been set by applying an outward flux of ions appropriate for open field line conditions. The model has been used to illustrate ionospheric behavior during geomagnetic storms conditions. Future model applications may include ionospheric prediction using IMF inputs improved understanding of polar ionization structures.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Aug 01, 1987
- Accession Number
- ADA185386
Entities
People
- B. J. Watkins
- S. I. Akasofu
Organizations
- University of Alaska Fairbanks