Studies of the Origin and Evolution of Ionospheric Irregularities and Their Effects on AF Systems
Abstract
We conducted a comprehensive investigation of the Earth's ionosphere under quiet and disturbed magnetic conditions. During magnetic storms, we determined that two plasma processes can produce mid-latitude irregularities. One was related to the auroral oval dynamics and produced short-scale structures. The other was SED-related and generated large-scale irregularities. We also studied the characteristics of the TIDs that were generated near the northern and southern ovals during a magnetic storm, and found a pronounced inter-hemispheric asymmetry. We discovered that airglow intensity of polar cap patches can vary due to the passage of gravity waves. A numerical simulation reproduced the variability of the airglow emissions within the patches. Other studies involved analyzing in detail the preconditioning of the low-latitude ionosphere before the onset of plasma bubbles, comparing the statistics of zonal drifts as observed by different UHF scintillation systems, and understanding the electro-dynamics of the low and middle latitude ionosphere during super storms. We directed two campaigns with the Sondrestrom radar in coordination with the Qaanaaq and Ny Alesund imagers. We operated an all-sky imager at Vize Island during two winters observing a type of auroral arcs that extend equatorward from the cusp. We also supported the AFRL-SCINDA program with technical logistic and management efforts.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jun 30, 2008
- Accession Number
- ADA490717
Entities
People
- C. E. Valladares
- E. Mackenzie
- R. Sheehan
Organizations
- Boston College