Studies of Ionospheric Plasma Electrodynamics
Abstract
This research effort has been focused primarily on the characterization of large scale plasma patches in the high latitude ionosphere and on the irregularities in density and velocity that are associated with them. Ionization patches are distinguished by elevation in the ion concentration above the nominal background polar cap values. Thus, any structure associated with them is associated with high number densities and thus is more effective in producing radio scintillation. Indeed, it is well known from event studies that patches are a seat for scintillations. What is not known, or consistently derived, is a morphological description of the seasonal and spatial location of these patches and the associated spectral characteristics of the density irregularities. To accomplish this goal we have first sought an objective criterion for the definition of a patch that can be used over an extensive satellite data base. Then we seek to describe the observed irregularities associated with patches.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- May 01, 1996
- Accession Number
- ADA385063
Entities
People
- Roderick A. Heelis
Organizations
- University of Texas at Dallas