A Space-Based Proxy for the Dst Index

Abstract

The Dst index was created to monitor and quantify disturbances in the inner magnetosphere using ground-based, magnetic field measurements. The phases and strengths of geomagnetic storms are usually defined by the evolution of Dst. The standard Dst database is computed and maintained at the World Data Center for Geomagnetism, Kyoto. We demonstrate that the Dst index can also be approximated using magnetometers on spacecraft in near-Earth orbit. Measurements used in the demonstration were obtained from boom-mounted sensors on two spacecraft of the Defense Meteorological Satellite Program. The extraction technique can be applied to magnetic field data retrieved by magnetometers on any spacecraft in low Earth orbit. This alternate method for computing a Dst-like index can be used to (1) supplement the standard Dst index in near-real-time space weather applications and (2) replace the "prompt" Dst index during periods of unavailability.

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Document Details

Document Type
Technical Report
Publication Date
May 18, 2007
Accession Number
ADA474975

Entities

People

  • F. J. Rich
  • J. M. Bono
  • L. C. Gentile
  • W. J. Burke

Organizations

  • Air Force Research Laboratory

Tags

Communities of Interest

  • Space

DTIC Thesaurus Topics

  • Air Force
  • Air Force Research Laboratories
  • Artificial Satellites
  • Data Centers
  • Detectors
  • Earth Orbits
  • Ground Based
  • Magnetic Fields
  • Magnetic Storms
  • Magnetometers
  • Measurement
  • Meteorological Satellites
  • Space Based
  • Space Objects
  • Space Weather
  • Spacecraft
  • Standards

Fields of Study

  • Physics

Readers

  • Astronomy and Astrophysics.
  • Ballistic Missile Meteorology
  • Computational Modeling and Simulation

Technology Areas

  • Space