Rocket Measurements Within a Polar Cap Arc: Ionospheric Modelling,
Abstract
Precipitating electron fluxes measured over a polar cap, F-region auroral arc were input to an ionospheric model that calculates production rate and density profiles of various species. The model also finds the electron temperature and electric conductivities over a specified altitude range. Most model results compare favorably with rocket measurements taken near apogee over the arc. The actual electron temperature is underestimated by the model and the relative densities of some minor species do not agree. Model results show that initial density conditions in particular strongly affect the development of electron density enhancements produced by dynamic, short lived (15 min) fluxes of soft electrons. The neutral atmosphere chosen for the model also influences the electron density profile produced by soft fluxes. Such differences may play a role in the solar cycle dependence of density fluctuations that cause scintillations in the polar cap.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Nov 19, 1987
- Accession Number
- ADA192381
Entities
People
- Robert E. Sheehan
Organizations
- Boston College