Analysis of N(2D) and N(2P) Emissions Observed During an Artificial Auroral Experiment.
Abstract
The EXCEDE III rocketborne electron beam experiment was successfully launched from White Sands Missile Range on April 27, 1990. An 18 A, 2.4 keV electron beam was pulsed along the Earth's magnetic field lines over an altitude range of 60 to 115 km. Measurements were made of 5200 A N(2D), 3466 A N(2P), as well as the 3914 A (0,0) and 5228 A (0,3) N2+ first negative band emissions, between altitudes of 90 to 115 km. A detailed chemical kinetics model describing the interaction of the electron beam with the atmosphere is used to analyze the visible emission from N(2D) and N(2P) observed during the EXCEDE III artificial auroral experiment. Quantitative agreement between the model and data is obtained for the N(2D) column densities. The observed N(2P) column densities are approximately 50% greater than that predicted by the kinetic model.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jul 01, 1995
- Accession Number
- ADA305321
Entities
People
- Fritz Bien
- James W. Duff