Investigating Ionospheric Heat Sources and Resultant Thermospheric Responses
Abstract
The proposed project is focused on ionospheric heat sources, generated during magnetically quiet and disturbed periods, and resultant thermospheric responses producing localized neutral density anomalies. Its main objective is to investigate the generation mechanisms of ionospheric heat sources and the development of resultant neutral density anomalies appearing as localized enhancements or depletions. Thermospheric responses will be detected by the Challenging Minisatellite Payload (CHAMP) and Gravity Recovery and Climate Experiment (GRACE) satellites. CHAMP (~350 km; altitude) and GRACE (~475 km) accelerometer measurements made at different altitudes, and matching NRLMSISE-00 model outputs generated for CHAMP/GRACE orbits will be analysed qualitatively and quantitatively. Underlying ionospheric processes will be tracked by Defense Meteorological Satellite Program (DMSP) spacecraft. Multi-instrument observational results and model simulations will be analyzed in order to better understand the development of localized neutral density anomalies and their chemical makeup, and their underlying ionospheric/magnetospheric processes and chemical mechanisms fueling heat sources. New results will be obtained (1) by employing CHAMP/GRACE wind data for investigating zonal and meridional wind circulations and wind surges in the regions of dayside cusp and polar cap, and (2) by utilizing DMSP ion drift data for identifying enhanced polar cap flows, appearing as flow channels. CHAMP and DMSP measured electron temperature will track the heat source. The various types of heat source-related localized energy deposition processes, occurring in flow channels of different types, will be identified based upon the FC classification ranging from FC-0 to FC-4. By integrating new results into existing theories, new insights and an improved understanding of the physical mechanisms underlying the coupled M-I-T system will be gained. Findings will benefit current studies at AFRL and
Document Details
- Document Type
- DoD Grant Award
- Publication Date
- Apr 09, 2018
- Source ID
- FA23861714109
Entities
People
- Ildiko Horvath
Organizations
- Air Force Office of Scientific Research
- United States Air Force
- University of Queensland