Bibliography





Notice:

  • Clicking on the title will open a new window with all details of the bibliographic entry.
  • Clicking on the DOI link will open a new window with the original bibliographic entry from the publisher.
  • Clicking on a single author will show all publications by the selected author.
  • Clicking on a single keyword, will show all publications by the selected keyword.



Found 4151 entries in the Bibliography.


Showing entries from 151 through 200


2021

Evidence of Alfvenic Poynting flux as the primary driver of auroral motion during a geomagnetic substorm

Abstract Geomagnetic substorms are major energy transfer events where energy stored in the Earths magnetotail is released into the ionosphere. Substorm phenomena, including auroral activities, earthward Poynting flux, magnetic field dipolarization, etc, have been extensively studied. However, the complex interplay among them is not fully understood. In a fortuitous event on June 07, 2013, the twin Van Allen Probes (separated by 0.4 hour in local time) observed bursts of earthward Alfvenic Poynting flux in the vicinity of the plasma sheet boundary layer (PSBL). The Poynting flux bursts correlate with enhancements of auroral brightness around the footpoints of both spacecraft. This indicates a temporal and spatial correlation between the auroral brightening and Poynting flux bursts, and that the auroral motion is directly linked to the perpendicular expansion of the Alfven wave. These observations suggest that the Alfvenic Poynting flux is a primary driver for the auroral electron acceleration. Around the time of auroral brightening, a dipolarization was seen to propagate more than 4 hours in local time during a 20 min period. The azimuthal phase speed of this dipolarization (2 deg/min) is too small to explain the azimuthal motion of the aurora (13.6 deg/min), but the dipolarization could be related to the generation of the Alfvenic Poynting flux through phase mixing at strong density gradients like those in the PSBL. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.

Tian, S.; Colpitts, C.; Wygant, J.; Cattell, C.; Ferradas, C.; Igl, A.; Larsen, B.; Reeves, G.; Donovan, E.;

Published by: Journal of Geophysical Research: Space Physics      Published on: 04/2021

YEAR: 2021     DOI: https://doi.org/10.1029/2020JA029019

Poynting flux; auroral physics; discrete arc; Dipolarization; Alfven waves; Van Allen Probes

Evidence of Alfvenic Poynting flux as the primary driver of auroral motion during a geomagnetic substorm

Abstract Geomagnetic substorms are major energy transfer events where energy stored in the Earths magnetotail is released into the ionosphere. Substorm phenomena, including auroral activities, earthward Poynting flux, magnetic field dipolarization, etc, have been extensively studied. However, the complex interplay among them is not fully understood. In a fortuitous event on June 07, 2013, the twin Van Allen Probes (separated by 0.4 hour in local time) observed bursts of earthward Alfvenic Poynting flux in the vicinity of the plasma sheet boundary layer (PSBL). The Poynting flux bursts correlate with enhancements of auroral brightness around the footpoints of both spacecraft. This indicates a temporal and spatial correlation between the auroral brightening and Poynting flux bursts, and that the auroral motion is directly linked to the perpendicular expansion of the Alfven wave. These observations suggest that the Alfvenic Poynting flux is a primary driver for the auroral electron acceleration. Around the time of auroral brightening, a dipolarization was seen to propagate more than 4 hours in local time during a 20 min period. The azimuthal phase speed of this dipolarization (2 deg/min) is too small to explain the azimuthal motion of the aurora (13.6 deg/min), but the dipolarization could be related to the generation of the Alfvenic Poynting flux through phase mixing at strong density gradients like those in the PSBL. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.

Tian, S.; Colpitts, C.; Wygant, J.; Cattell, C.; Ferradas, C.; Igl, A.; Larsen, B.; Reeves, G.; Donovan, E.;

Published by: Journal of Geophysical Research: Space Physics      Published on: 04/2021

YEAR: 2021     DOI: https://doi.org/10.1029/2020JA029019

Poynting flux; auroral physics; discrete arc; Dipolarization; Alfven waves; Van Allen Probes

Evidence of Alfvenic Poynting flux as the primary driver of auroral motion during a geomagnetic substorm

Abstract Geomagnetic substorms are major energy transfer events where energy stored in the Earths magnetotail is released into the ionosphere. Substorm phenomena, including auroral activities, earthward Poynting flux, magnetic field dipolarization, etc, have been extensively studied. However, the complex interplay among them is not fully understood. In a fortuitous event on June 07, 2013, the twin Van Allen Probes (separated by 0.4 hour in local time) observed bursts of earthward Alfvenic Poynting flux in the vicinity of the plasma sheet boundary layer (PSBL). The Poynting flux bursts correlate with enhancements of auroral brightness around the footpoints of both spacecraft. This indicates a temporal and spatial correlation between the auroral brightening and Poynting flux bursts, and that the auroral motion is directly linked to the perpendicular expansion of the Alfven wave. These observations suggest that the Alfvenic Poynting flux is a primary driver for the auroral electron acceleration. Around the time of auroral brightening, a dipolarization was seen to propagate more than 4 hours in local time during a 20 min period. The azimuthal phase speed of this dipolarization (2 deg/min) is too small to explain the azimuthal motion of the aurora (13.6 deg/min), but the dipolarization could be related to the generation of the Alfvenic Poynting flux through phase mixing at strong density gradients like those in the PSBL. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.

Tian, S.; Colpitts, C.; Wygant, J.; Cattell, C.; Ferradas, C.; Igl, A.; Larsen, B.; Reeves, G.; Donovan, E.;

Published by: Journal of Geophysical Research: Space Physics      Published on: 04/2021

YEAR: 2021     DOI: https://doi.org/10.1029/2020JA029019

Poynting flux; auroral physics; discrete arc; Dipolarization; Alfven waves; Van Allen Probes

Upper limit of proton anisotropy and its relation to EMIC waves in the inner magnetosphere

Abstract Proton anisotropy in velocity space has been generally accepted as a major parameter for exciting electromagnetic ion cyclotron (EMIC) waves. In this study, we estimate the proton anisotropy parameter as defined by the linear resonance theory using data from the Van Allen Probes mission. Our investigation uses the measurements of the inner magnetosphere (L < 6) from January 2013 to February 2018. We find that the proton anisotropy is always clearly limited by an upper bound and it well follows an inverse relationship with the parallel proton β (the ratio of the plasma pressure to the magnetic pressure) within a certain range. This upper bound exists over wide spatial regions, AE conditions, and resonance energies regardless of the presence of EMIC waves. EMIC waves occur when the anisotropy lies below but close to this upper bound within a narrow plasma β range: The lower cutoff β is due to an excessively high anisotropy threshold and the upper cutoff β is possibly due to the predominant role of a faster-growing mirror mode instability. We also find that the anisotropy during the observed EMIC waves is unstable, leading to the linear ion cyclotron instability. This result implies that the upper bound of the anisotropy is due to nonlinear processes. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.

Noh, Sung-Jun; Lee, Dae-Young; Kim, Hyomin; Lanzerotti, Louis; Gerrard, Andrew; Skoug, Ruth;

Published by: Journal of Geophysical Research: Space Physics      Published on: 04/2021

YEAR: 2021     DOI: https://doi.org/10.1029/2020JA028614

Proton Anisotropy; Ion cyclotron instability; Proton distribution; Van Allen Probes; Wave-particle interaction

Upper limit of proton anisotropy and its relation to EMIC waves in the inner magnetosphere

Abstract Proton anisotropy in velocity space has been generally accepted as a major parameter for exciting electromagnetic ion cyclotron (EMIC) waves. In this study, we estimate the proton anisotropy parameter as defined by the linear resonance theory using data from the Van Allen Probes mission. Our investigation uses the measurements of the inner magnetosphere (L < 6) from January 2013 to February 2018. We find that the proton anisotropy is always clearly limited by an upper bound and it well follows an inverse relationship with the parallel proton β (the ratio of the plasma pressure to the magnetic pressure) within a certain range. This upper bound exists over wide spatial regions, AE conditions, and resonance energies regardless of the presence of EMIC waves. EMIC waves occur when the anisotropy lies below but close to this upper bound within a narrow plasma β range: The lower cutoff β is due to an excessively high anisotropy threshold and the upper cutoff β is possibly due to the predominant role of a faster-growing mirror mode instability. We also find that the anisotropy during the observed EMIC waves is unstable, leading to the linear ion cyclotron instability. This result implies that the upper bound of the anisotropy is due to nonlinear processes. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.

Noh, Sung-Jun; Lee, Dae-Young; Kim, Hyomin; Lanzerotti, Louis; Gerrard, Andrew; Skoug, Ruth;

Published by: Journal of Geophysical Research: Space Physics      Published on: 04/2021

YEAR: 2021     DOI: https://doi.org/10.1029/2020JA028614

Proton Anisotropy; Ion cyclotron instability; Proton distribution; Van Allen Probes; Wave-particle interaction

Upper limit of proton anisotropy and its relation to EMIC waves in the inner magnetosphere

Abstract Proton anisotropy in velocity space has been generally accepted as a major parameter for exciting electromagnetic ion cyclotron (EMIC) waves. In this study, we estimate the proton anisotropy parameter as defined by the linear resonance theory using data from the Van Allen Probes mission. Our investigation uses the measurements of the inner magnetosphere (L < 6) from January 2013 to February 2018. We find that the proton anisotropy is always clearly limited by an upper bound and it well follows an inverse relationship with the parallel proton β (the ratio of the plasma pressure to the magnetic pressure) within a certain range. This upper bound exists over wide spatial regions, AE conditions, and resonance energies regardless of the presence of EMIC waves. EMIC waves occur when the anisotropy lies below but close to this upper bound within a narrow plasma β range: The lower cutoff β is due to an excessively high anisotropy threshold and the upper cutoff β is possibly due to the predominant role of a faster-growing mirror mode instability. We also find that the anisotropy during the observed EMIC waves is unstable, leading to the linear ion cyclotron instability. This result implies that the upper bound of the anisotropy is due to nonlinear processes. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.

Noh, Sung-Jun; Lee, Dae-Young; Kim, Hyomin; Lanzerotti, Louis; Gerrard, Andrew; Skoug, Ruth;

Published by: Journal of Geophysical Research: Space Physics      Published on: 04/2021

YEAR: 2021     DOI: https://doi.org/10.1029/2020JA028614

Proton Anisotropy; Ion cyclotron instability; Proton distribution; Van Allen Probes; Wave-particle interaction

Dependence of Relativistic Electron Precipitation in the Ionosphere on EMIC Wave Minimum Resonant Energy at the Conjugate Equator

Abstract We investigate relativistic electron precipitation events detected by POES in low-Earth orbit in close conjunction with Van Allen Probe A observations of EMIC waves near the geomagnetic equator. We show that the occurrence rate of > 0.7 MeV electron precipitation recorded by POES during those times strongly increases, reaching statistically significant levels when the minimum electron energy for cyclotron resonance with hydrogen or helium band EMIC waves at the equator decreases below ≃ 1.0 − 2.5 MeV, as expected from quasi-linear theory. Both hydrogen and helium band EMIC waves can be effective in precipitating MeV electrons. However, > 0.7 MeV electron precipitation is more often observed (at statistically significant levels) when the minimum electron energy for cyclotron resonance with hydrogen band waves is low (Emin = 0.6 − 1.0 MeV), whereas it is more often observed when the minimum electron energy for cyclotron resonance with helium band waves is slightly larger (Emin = 1.0 − 2.5 MeV), indicative of warm plasma effects for waves approaching the He+ gyrofrequency. We further show that most precipitation events had energies > 0.7 − 1.0 MeV, consistent with the estimated minimum energy (Emin ∼ 0.6 − 2.5 MeV) of cyclotron resonance with the observed EMIC waves during the majority of these events. However, 4 out of the 12 detected precipitation events cannot be explained by electron quasi-linear scattering by the observed EMIC waves, and 12 out of 20 theoretically expected precipitation events were not detected by POES, suggesting the possibility of nonlinear effects likely present near the magnetic equator, or warm plasma effects, and/or narrowly localized bursts of EMIC waves. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.

Zhang, X.-J.; Mourenas, D.; Shen, X.-C.; Qin, M.; Artemyev, A.; Ma, Q.; Li, W.; Hudson, M.; Angelopoulos, V.;

Published by: Journal of Geophysical Research: Space Physics      Published on: 04/2021

YEAR: 2021     DOI: https://doi.org/10.1029/2021JA029193

EMIC waves; relativistic electron precipitation; minimum resonant energy; Van Allen Probes; POES; Radiation belts

Dependence of Relativistic Electron Precipitation in the Ionosphere on EMIC Wave Minimum Resonant Energy at the Conjugate Equator

Abstract We investigate relativistic electron precipitation events detected by POES in low-Earth orbit in close conjunction with Van Allen Probe A observations of EMIC waves near the geomagnetic equator. We show that the occurrence rate of > 0.7 MeV electron precipitation recorded by POES during those times strongly increases, reaching statistically significant levels when the minimum electron energy for cyclotron resonance with hydrogen or helium band EMIC waves at the equator decreases below ≃ 1.0 − 2.5 MeV, as expected from quasi-linear theory. Both hydrogen and helium band EMIC waves can be effective in precipitating MeV electrons. However, > 0.7 MeV electron precipitation is more often observed (at statistically significant levels) when the minimum electron energy for cyclotron resonance with hydrogen band waves is low (Emin = 0.6 − 1.0 MeV), whereas it is more often observed when the minimum electron energy for cyclotron resonance with helium band waves is slightly larger (Emin = 1.0 − 2.5 MeV), indicative of warm plasma effects for waves approaching the He+ gyrofrequency. We further show that most precipitation events had energies > 0.7 − 1.0 MeV, consistent with the estimated minimum energy (Emin ∼ 0.6 − 2.5 MeV) of cyclotron resonance with the observed EMIC waves during the majority of these events. However, 4 out of the 12 detected precipitation events cannot be explained by electron quasi-linear scattering by the observed EMIC waves, and 12 out of 20 theoretically expected precipitation events were not detected by POES, suggesting the possibility of nonlinear effects likely present near the magnetic equator, or warm plasma effects, and/or narrowly localized bursts of EMIC waves. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.

Zhang, X.-J.; Mourenas, D.; Shen, X.-C.; Qin, M.; Artemyev, A.; Ma, Q.; Li, W.; Hudson, M.; Angelopoulos, V.;

Published by: Journal of Geophysical Research: Space Physics      Published on: 04/2021

YEAR: 2021     DOI: https://doi.org/10.1029/2021JA029193

EMIC waves; relativistic electron precipitation; minimum resonant energy; Van Allen Probes; POES; Radiation belts

Dependence of Relativistic Electron Precipitation in the Ionosphere on EMIC Wave Minimum Resonant Energy at the Conjugate Equator

Abstract We investigate relativistic electron precipitation events detected by POES in low-Earth orbit in close conjunction with Van Allen Probe A observations of EMIC waves near the geomagnetic equator. We show that the occurrence rate of > 0.7 MeV electron precipitation recorded by POES during those times strongly increases, reaching statistically significant levels when the minimum electron energy for cyclotron resonance with hydrogen or helium band EMIC waves at the equator decreases below ≃ 1.0 − 2.5 MeV, as expected from quasi-linear theory. Both hydrogen and helium band EMIC waves can be effective in precipitating MeV electrons. However, > 0.7 MeV electron precipitation is more often observed (at statistically significant levels) when the minimum electron energy for cyclotron resonance with hydrogen band waves is low (Emin = 0.6 − 1.0 MeV), whereas it is more often observed when the minimum electron energy for cyclotron resonance with helium band waves is slightly larger (Emin = 1.0 − 2.5 MeV), indicative of warm plasma effects for waves approaching the He+ gyrofrequency. We further show that most precipitation events had energies > 0.7 − 1.0 MeV, consistent with the estimated minimum energy (Emin ∼ 0.6 − 2.5 MeV) of cyclotron resonance with the observed EMIC waves during the majority of these events. However, 4 out of the 12 detected precipitation events cannot be explained by electron quasi-linear scattering by the observed EMIC waves, and 12 out of 20 theoretically expected precipitation events were not detected by POES, suggesting the possibility of nonlinear effects likely present near the magnetic equator, or warm plasma effects, and/or narrowly localized bursts of EMIC waves. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.

Zhang, X.-J.; Mourenas, D.; Shen, X.-C.; Qin, M.; Artemyev, A.; Ma, Q.; Li, W.; Hudson, M.; Angelopoulos, V.;

Published by: Journal of Geophysical Research: Space Physics      Published on: 04/2021

YEAR: 2021     DOI: https://doi.org/10.1029/2021JA029193

EMIC waves; relativistic electron precipitation; minimum resonant energy; Van Allen Probes; POES; Radiation belts

Dependence of Relativistic Electron Precipitation in the Ionosphere on EMIC Wave Minimum Resonant Energy at the Conjugate Equator

Abstract We investigate relativistic electron precipitation events detected by POES in low-Earth orbit in close conjunction with Van Allen Probe A observations of EMIC waves near the geomagnetic equator. We show that the occurrence rate of > 0.7 MeV electron precipitation recorded by POES during those times strongly increases, reaching statistically significant levels when the minimum electron energy for cyclotron resonance with hydrogen or helium band EMIC waves at the equator decreases below ≃ 1.0 − 2.5 MeV, as expected from quasi-linear theory. Both hydrogen and helium band EMIC waves can be effective in precipitating MeV electrons. However, > 0.7 MeV electron precipitation is more often observed (at statistically significant levels) when the minimum electron energy for cyclotron resonance with hydrogen band waves is low (Emin = 0.6 − 1.0 MeV), whereas it is more often observed when the minimum electron energy for cyclotron resonance with helium band waves is slightly larger (Emin = 1.0 − 2.5 MeV), indicative of warm plasma effects for waves approaching the He+ gyrofrequency. We further show that most precipitation events had energies > 0.7 − 1.0 MeV, consistent with the estimated minimum energy (Emin ∼ 0.6 − 2.5 MeV) of cyclotron resonance with the observed EMIC waves during the majority of these events. However, 4 out of the 12 detected precipitation events cannot be explained by electron quasi-linear scattering by the observed EMIC waves, and 12 out of 20 theoretically expected precipitation events were not detected by POES, suggesting the possibility of nonlinear effects likely present near the magnetic equator, or warm plasma effects, and/or narrowly localized bursts of EMIC waves. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.

Zhang, X.-J.; Mourenas, D.; Shen, X.-C.; Qin, M.; Artemyev, A.; Ma, Q.; Li, W.; Hudson, M.; Angelopoulos, V.;

Published by: Journal of Geophysical Research: Space Physics      Published on: 04/2021

YEAR: 2021     DOI: https://doi.org/10.1029/2021JA029193

EMIC waves; relativistic electron precipitation; minimum resonant energy; Van Allen Probes; POES; Radiation belts

Simultaneous observation of two isolated proton auroras at subauroral latitudes by a highly sensitive all-sky camera and Van Allen Probes

Abstract Isolated proton auroras (IPAs) appearing at subauroral latitudes are generated by energetic protons precipitating from the magnetosphere through interaction with electromagnetic ion cyclotron (EMIC) waves. An IPA thus indicates the spatial scale and temporal variation of wave–particle interactions in the magnetosphere. In this study, a unique event of simultaneous ground and magnetospheric satellite observations of two IPAs were conducted on March 16, 2015, using an all-sky imager at Athabasca, Canada and Van Allen Probes. The Van Allen Probes observed two isolated EMIC waves with frequencies of ∼1 and 0.4 Hz at L ≈ 5.0 when the satellite footprint crossed over the two IPAs. This suggests that the IPAs were caused by localized EMIC waves. Proton flux at 5–20 keV increased locally when the EMIC waves appeared. Electron flux at energies below ∼500 eV also increased. Temperature anisotropy of the energetic protons was estimated as 1.5–2.5 over a wide L-value range of 3.0–5.2. Electron density gradually decreased from L = 3.5 to L = 5.4, suggesting that the EMIC wave at L ≈ 5.0 was located in the gradual plasmapause. From these observations, we conclude that the localized IPAs and associated EMIC waves took place because of localized enhancement of energetic proton flux and plasma density structure near the plasmapause. The magnetic field observed by the satellite showed small variation during the wave observation, indicating that the IPAs were accompanied by the weak field-aligned current.

Nakmaura, Kohki; Shiokawa, Kazuo; Otsuka, Yuichi; Shinbori, Atsuki; Miyoshi, Yoshizumi; Connors, Martin; Spence, Harlan; Reeves, Geoff; Funsten, Herbert; MacDowall, Robert; Smith, Charles; Wygant, John; Bonnell, John;

Published by: Journal of Geophysical Research: Space Physics      Published on: 04/2021

YEAR: 2021     DOI: https://doi.org/10.1029/2020JA029078

isolated proton aurora; Van Allen Probes

Simultaneous observation of two isolated proton auroras at subauroral latitudes by a highly sensitive all-sky camera and Van Allen Probes

Abstract Isolated proton auroras (IPAs) appearing at subauroral latitudes are generated by energetic protons precipitating from the magnetosphere through interaction with electromagnetic ion cyclotron (EMIC) waves. An IPA thus indicates the spatial scale and temporal variation of wave–particle interactions in the magnetosphere. In this study, a unique event of simultaneous ground and magnetospheric satellite observations of two IPAs were conducted on March 16, 2015, using an all-sky imager at Athabasca, Canada and Van Allen Probes. The Van Allen Probes observed two isolated EMIC waves with frequencies of ∼1 and 0.4 Hz at L ≈ 5.0 when the satellite footprint crossed over the two IPAs. This suggests that the IPAs were caused by localized EMIC waves. Proton flux at 5–20 keV increased locally when the EMIC waves appeared. Electron flux at energies below ∼500 eV also increased. Temperature anisotropy of the energetic protons was estimated as 1.5–2.5 over a wide L-value range of 3.0–5.2. Electron density gradually decreased from L = 3.5 to L = 5.4, suggesting that the EMIC wave at L ≈ 5.0 was located in the gradual plasmapause. From these observations, we conclude that the localized IPAs and associated EMIC waves took place because of localized enhancement of energetic proton flux and plasma density structure near the plasmapause. The magnetic field observed by the satellite showed small variation during the wave observation, indicating that the IPAs were accompanied by the weak field-aligned current.

Nakmaura, Kohki; Shiokawa, Kazuo; Otsuka, Yuichi; Shinbori, Atsuki; Miyoshi, Yoshizumi; Connors, Martin; Spence, Harlan; Reeves, Geoff; Funsten, Herbert; MacDowall, Robert; Smith, Charles; Wygant, John; Bonnell, John;

Published by: Journal of Geophysical Research: Space Physics      Published on: 04/2021

YEAR: 2021     DOI: https://doi.org/10.1029/2020JA029078

isolated proton aurora; Van Allen Probes

Simultaneous observation of two isolated proton auroras at subauroral latitudes by a highly sensitive all-sky camera and Van Allen Probes

Abstract Isolated proton auroras (IPAs) appearing at subauroral latitudes are generated by energetic protons precipitating from the magnetosphere through interaction with electromagnetic ion cyclotron (EMIC) waves. An IPA thus indicates the spatial scale and temporal variation of wave–particle interactions in the magnetosphere. In this study, a unique event of simultaneous ground and magnetospheric satellite observations of two IPAs were conducted on March 16, 2015, using an all-sky imager at Athabasca, Canada and Van Allen Probes. The Van Allen Probes observed two isolated EMIC waves with frequencies of ∼1 and 0.4 Hz at L ≈ 5.0 when the satellite footprint crossed over the two IPAs. This suggests that the IPAs were caused by localized EMIC waves. Proton flux at 5–20 keV increased locally when the EMIC waves appeared. Electron flux at energies below ∼500 eV also increased. Temperature anisotropy of the energetic protons was estimated as 1.5–2.5 over a wide L-value range of 3.0–5.2. Electron density gradually decreased from L = 3.5 to L = 5.4, suggesting that the EMIC wave at L ≈ 5.0 was located in the gradual plasmapause. From these observations, we conclude that the localized IPAs and associated EMIC waves took place because of localized enhancement of energetic proton flux and plasma density structure near the plasmapause. The magnetic field observed by the satellite showed small variation during the wave observation, indicating that the IPAs were accompanied by the weak field-aligned current.

Nakmaura, Kohki; Shiokawa, Kazuo; Otsuka, Yuichi; Shinbori, Atsuki; Miyoshi, Yoshizumi; Connors, Martin; Spence, Harlan; Reeves, Geoff; Funsten, Herbert; MacDowall, Robert; Smith, Charles; Wygant, John; Bonnell, John;

Published by: Journal of Geophysical Research: Space Physics      Published on: 04/2021

YEAR: 2021     DOI: https://doi.org/10.1029/2020JA029078

isolated proton aurora; Van Allen Probes

Simultaneous observation of two isolated proton auroras at subauroral latitudes by a highly sensitive all-sky camera and Van Allen Probes

Abstract Isolated proton auroras (IPAs) appearing at subauroral latitudes are generated by energetic protons precipitating from the magnetosphere through interaction with electromagnetic ion cyclotron (EMIC) waves. An IPA thus indicates the spatial scale and temporal variation of wave–particle interactions in the magnetosphere. In this study, a unique event of simultaneous ground and magnetospheric satellite observations of two IPAs were conducted on March 16, 2015, using an all-sky imager at Athabasca, Canada and Van Allen Probes. The Van Allen Probes observed two isolated EMIC waves with frequencies of ∼1 and 0.4 Hz at L ≈ 5.0 when the satellite footprint crossed over the two IPAs. This suggests that the IPAs were caused by localized EMIC waves. Proton flux at 5–20 keV increased locally when the EMIC waves appeared. Electron flux at energies below ∼500 eV also increased. Temperature anisotropy of the energetic protons was estimated as 1.5–2.5 over a wide L-value range of 3.0–5.2. Electron density gradually decreased from L = 3.5 to L = 5.4, suggesting that the EMIC wave at L ≈ 5.0 was located in the gradual plasmapause. From these observations, we conclude that the localized IPAs and associated EMIC waves took place because of localized enhancement of energetic proton flux and plasma density structure near the plasmapause. The magnetic field observed by the satellite showed small variation during the wave observation, indicating that the IPAs were accompanied by the weak field-aligned current.

Nakmaura, Kohki; Shiokawa, Kazuo; Otsuka, Yuichi; Shinbori, Atsuki; Miyoshi, Yoshizumi; Connors, Martin; Spence, Harlan; Reeves, Geoff; Funsten, Herbert; MacDowall, Robert; Smith, Charles; Wygant, John; Bonnell, John;

Published by: Journal of Geophysical Research: Space Physics      Published on: 04/2021

YEAR: 2021     DOI: https://doi.org/10.1029/2020JA029078

isolated proton aurora; Van Allen Probes

Observational Evidence for Whistler Waves Guided/Ducted by the Inner and Outer Edges of the Plasmapause

Abstract With Van Allen Probes data, we present the observational support for whistler waves guided by the plasmapause based on a case study and statistical analyses. Due to the combined effects of inhomogeneous magnetic fields and plasma densities, whistler waves near the inner edge of plasmapause (plasmasphere side) will be guided by a HDD-like (HDD, high density duct) density gradient, and tend to have very small wave normal angles (WNAs ≤20°). In contrast, whistler waves around the outer edge of the plasmapause (plasmatrough side) guided by a LDD-like (LDD, low density duct) density gradient, tend to have quite large WNAs (≥∼60°). Moreover, the statistical analysis reveals the remarkably different properties of whistler waves around inner and outer edges of plasmapause. We suggest that the plasmapause density gradients may play a significant role in the distribution of whistler waves.

Chen, Rui; Gao, Xinliang; Lu, Quanming; Tsurutani, Bruce; Wang, Shui;

Published by: Geophysical Research Letters      Published on: 03/2021

YEAR: 2021     DOI: https://doi.org/10.1029/2021GL092652

Plasmapause; whistler wave; ducting effect; inner edge; outer edge; wave normal angle; Van Allen Probes

Whistler-mode waves trapped by density irregularities in the Earth s magnetosphere

Abstract Whistler-mode waves are electromagnetic waves pervasively observed in the Earth s and other planetary magnetospheres. They are considered to be mainly responsible for producing the hazardous radiation and diffuse aurora, which heavily relies on their properties. Density irregularities, frequently observed in the Earth s magnetospheres, are found to change largely the properties of whistler-mode waves. Here we report, using Van Allen Probes measurements, whistler-mode waves strongly modulated by two different density enhancements. With particle-in-cell simulations, we propose wave trapping caused by field-aligned density irregularities (ducts) may account for this phenomenon. Simulation results show that whistler-mode waves can be trapped inside the enhanced density ducts. These trapped waves remain quasi-parallel and usually get much larger amplitudes than those unducted whistler waves during propagation away from the magnetic equator, and tend to focus at a spatially narrow channel, consistent with observations. Our results imply density irregularities may be significant to modulate radiation-belt electrons. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.

Ke, Yangguang; Chen, Lunjin; Gao, Xinliang; Lu, Quanming; Wang, Xueyi; Chen, Rui; Chen, Huayue; Wang, Shui;

Published by: Geophysical Research Letters      Published on: 03/2021

YEAR: 2021     DOI: https://doi.org/10.1029/2020GL092305

WHISTLER-MODE WAVES; density irregularities; Magnetosphere; Radiation belts; particle-in-cell simulation; Wave trapping; Van Allen Probes

Whistler-mode waves trapped by density irregularities in the Earth s magnetosphere

Abstract Whistler-mode waves are electromagnetic waves pervasively observed in the Earth s and other planetary magnetospheres. They are considered to be mainly responsible for producing the hazardous radiation and diffuse aurora, which heavily relies on their properties. Density irregularities, frequently observed in the Earth s magnetospheres, are found to change largely the properties of whistler-mode waves. Here we report, using Van Allen Probes measurements, whistler-mode waves strongly modulated by two different density enhancements. With particle-in-cell simulations, we propose wave trapping caused by field-aligned density irregularities (ducts) may account for this phenomenon. Simulation results show that whistler-mode waves can be trapped inside the enhanced density ducts. These trapped waves remain quasi-parallel and usually get much larger amplitudes than those unducted whistler waves during propagation away from the magnetic equator, and tend to focus at a spatially narrow channel, consistent with observations. Our results imply density irregularities may be significant to modulate radiation-belt electrons. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.

Ke, Yangguang; Chen, Lunjin; Gao, Xinliang; Lu, Quanming; Wang, Xueyi; Chen, Rui; Chen, Huayue; Wang, Shui;

Published by: Geophysical Research Letters      Published on: 03/2021

YEAR: 2021     DOI: https://doi.org/10.1029/2020GL092305

WHISTLER-MODE WAVES; density irregularities; Magnetosphere; Radiation belts; particle-in-cell simulation; Wave trapping; Van Allen Probes

Whistler-mode waves trapped by density irregularities in the Earth s magnetosphere

Abstract Whistler-mode waves are electromagnetic waves pervasively observed in the Earth s and other planetary magnetospheres. They are considered to be mainly responsible for producing the hazardous radiation and diffuse aurora, which heavily relies on their properties. Density irregularities, frequently observed in the Earth s magnetospheres, are found to change largely the properties of whistler-mode waves. Here we report, using Van Allen Probes measurements, whistler-mode waves strongly modulated by two different density enhancements. With particle-in-cell simulations, we propose wave trapping caused by field-aligned density irregularities (ducts) may account for this phenomenon. Simulation results show that whistler-mode waves can be trapped inside the enhanced density ducts. These trapped waves remain quasi-parallel and usually get much larger amplitudes than those unducted whistler waves during propagation away from the magnetic equator, and tend to focus at a spatially narrow channel, consistent with observations. Our results imply density irregularities may be significant to modulate radiation-belt electrons. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.

Ke, Yangguang; Chen, Lunjin; Gao, Xinliang; Lu, Quanming; Wang, Xueyi; Chen, Rui; Chen, Huayue; Wang, Shui;

Published by: Geophysical Research Letters      Published on: 03/2021

YEAR: 2021     DOI: https://doi.org/10.1029/2020GL092305

WHISTLER-MODE WAVES; density irregularities; Magnetosphere; Radiation belts; particle-in-cell simulation; Wave trapping; Van Allen Probes

Whistler-mode waves trapped by density irregularities in the Earth s magnetosphere

Abstract Whistler-mode waves are electromagnetic waves pervasively observed in the Earth s and other planetary magnetospheres. They are considered to be mainly responsible for producing the hazardous radiation and diffuse aurora, which heavily relies on their properties. Density irregularities, frequently observed in the Earth s magnetospheres, are found to change largely the properties of whistler-mode waves. Here we report, using Van Allen Probes measurements, whistler-mode waves strongly modulated by two different density enhancements. With particle-in-cell simulations, we propose wave trapping caused by field-aligned density irregularities (ducts) may account for this phenomenon. Simulation results show that whistler-mode waves can be trapped inside the enhanced density ducts. These trapped waves remain quasi-parallel and usually get much larger amplitudes than those unducted whistler waves during propagation away from the magnetic equator, and tend to focus at a spatially narrow channel, consistent with observations. Our results imply density irregularities may be significant to modulate radiation-belt electrons. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.

Ke, Yangguang; Chen, Lunjin; Gao, Xinliang; Lu, Quanming; Wang, Xueyi; Chen, Rui; Chen, Huayue; Wang, Shui;

Published by: Geophysical Research Letters      Published on: 03/2021

YEAR: 2021     DOI: https://doi.org/10.1029/2020GL092305

WHISTLER-MODE WAVES; density irregularities; Magnetosphere; Radiation belts; particle-in-cell simulation; Wave trapping; Van Allen Probes

Prediction of Dynamic Plasmapause Location Using a Neural Network

Abstract As a common boundary layer that distinctly separates the regions of high-density plasmasphere and low-density plasmatrough, the plasmapause is essential to comprehend the dynamics and variability of the inner magnetosphere. Using the machine learning framework Pytorch and high-quality Van Allen Probes data set, we develop a neural network model to predict the global dynamic variation of the plasmapause location, along with the identification of 6537 plasmapause crossing events during the period from 2012 to 2017. To avoid the overfitting and optimize the model generalization, 5493 events during the period from September 2012 to December 2015 are adopted for division into the training set and validation set in terms of the 10-fold cross validation method, and the remaining 1044 events are used as the test set. The model parameterized by only AE or Kp index can reproduce the plasmapause locations similar to those modeled using all five considered solar wind and geomagnetic parameters. Model evaluation on the test set indicate that our neural network model is capable of predicting the plasmapause location with the lowest RMSE. Our model can also produce a smooth MLT variation of the plasmapause location with good accuracy, which can be incorporated into global radiation belt simulations and space weather forecasts under a variety of geomagnetic conditions. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.

Guo, DeYu; Fu, Song; Xiang, Zheng; Ni, Binbin; Guo, YingJie; Feng, Minghang; Guo, JianGuang; Hu, Zejun; Gu, Xudong; Zhu, Jianan; Cao, Xing; Wang, Qi;

Published by: Space Weather      Published on: 03/2021

YEAR: 2021     DOI: https://doi.org/10.1029/2020SW002622

Plasmapause; neural network; Van Allen Probes; space weather forecast

Estimating the Impacts of Radiation Belt Electrons on Atmospheric Chemistry using FIREBIRD II and Van Allen Probes Observations

Abstract This study considers the impact of electron precipitation from Earth s radiation belts on atmospheric composition using observations from the NASA Van Allen Probes and NSF Focused Investigations of Relativistic Electron Burst Intensity, Range, and Dynamics (FIREBIRD II) CubeSats. Ratios of electron flux between the Van Allen Probes (in near-equatorial orbit in the radiation belts) and FIREBIRD II (in polar low Earth orbit) during spacecraft conjunctions (2015-2017) allow an estimate of precipitation into the atmosphere. Total Radiation Belt Electron Content, calculated from Van Allen Probes RBSP-ECT MagEIS data, identifies a sustained 10-day electron loss event in March 2013 that serves as an initial case study. Atmospheric ionization profiles, calculated by integrating monoenergetic ionization rates across the precipitating electron flux spectrum, provide input to the NCAR Whole Atmosphere Community Climate Model in order to quantify enhancements of atmospheric HOx and NOx and subsequent destruction of O3 in the middle atmosphere. Results suggest that current APEEP parameterizations of radiation belt electrons used in Coupled Model Intercomparison Project may underestimate the duration of events as well as higher energy electron contributions to atmospheric ionization and modeled NOx concentrations in the mesosphere and upper stratosphere.

Duderstadt, K.; Huang, C.-L.; Spence, H.; Smith, S.; Blake, J.; Crew, A.; Johnson, A.; Klumpar, D.; Marsh, D.; Sample, J.; Shumko, M.; Vitt, F.;

Published by: Journal of Geophysical Research: Atmospheres      Published on: 03/2021

YEAR: 2021     DOI: https://doi.org/10.1029/2020JD033098

electron precipitation; Radiation belts; ozone; Atmospheric Ionization; Van Allen Probes; FIREBIRD

Estimating the Impacts of Radiation Belt Electrons on Atmospheric Chemistry using FIREBIRD II and Van Allen Probes Observations

Abstract This study considers the impact of electron precipitation from Earth s radiation belts on atmospheric composition using observations from the NASA Van Allen Probes and NSF Focused Investigations of Relativistic Electron Burst Intensity, Range, and Dynamics (FIREBIRD II) CubeSats. Ratios of electron flux between the Van Allen Probes (in near-equatorial orbit in the radiation belts) and FIREBIRD II (in polar low Earth orbit) during spacecraft conjunctions (2015-2017) allow an estimate of precipitation into the atmosphere. Total Radiation Belt Electron Content, calculated from Van Allen Probes RBSP-ECT MagEIS data, identifies a sustained 10-day electron loss event in March 2013 that serves as an initial case study. Atmospheric ionization profiles, calculated by integrating monoenergetic ionization rates across the precipitating electron flux spectrum, provide input to the NCAR Whole Atmosphere Community Climate Model in order to quantify enhancements of atmospheric HOx and NOx and subsequent destruction of O3 in the middle atmosphere. Results suggest that current APEEP parameterizations of radiation belt electrons used in Coupled Model Intercomparison Project may underestimate the duration of events as well as higher energy electron contributions to atmospheric ionization and modeled NOx concentrations in the mesosphere and upper stratosphere.

Duderstadt, K.; Huang, C.-L.; Spence, H.; Smith, S.; Blake, J.; Crew, A.; Johnson, A.; Klumpar, D.; Marsh, D.; Sample, J.; Shumko, M.; Vitt, F.;

Published by: Journal of Geophysical Research: Atmospheres      Published on: 03/2021

YEAR: 2021     DOI: https://doi.org/10.1029/2020JD033098

electron precipitation; Radiation belts; ozone; Atmospheric Ionization; Van Allen Probes; FIREBIRD

Estimating the Impacts of Radiation Belt Electrons on Atmospheric Chemistry using FIREBIRD II and Van Allen Probes Observations

Abstract This study considers the impact of electron precipitation from Earth s radiation belts on atmospheric composition using observations from the NASA Van Allen Probes and NSF Focused Investigations of Relativistic Electron Burst Intensity, Range, and Dynamics (FIREBIRD II) CubeSats. Ratios of electron flux between the Van Allen Probes (in near-equatorial orbit in the radiation belts) and FIREBIRD II (in polar low Earth orbit) during spacecraft conjunctions (2015-2017) allow an estimate of precipitation into the atmosphere. Total Radiation Belt Electron Content, calculated from Van Allen Probes RBSP-ECT MagEIS data, identifies a sustained 10-day electron loss event in March 2013 that serves as an initial case study. Atmospheric ionization profiles, calculated by integrating monoenergetic ionization rates across the precipitating electron flux spectrum, provide input to the NCAR Whole Atmosphere Community Climate Model in order to quantify enhancements of atmospheric HOx and NOx and subsequent destruction of O3 in the middle atmosphere. Results suggest that current APEEP parameterizations of radiation belt electrons used in Coupled Model Intercomparison Project may underestimate the duration of events as well as higher energy electron contributions to atmospheric ionization and modeled NOx concentrations in the mesosphere and upper stratosphere.

Duderstadt, K.; Huang, C.-L.; Spence, H.; Smith, S.; Blake, J.; Crew, A.; Johnson, A.; Klumpar, D.; Marsh, D.; Sample, J.; Shumko, M.; Vitt, F.;

Published by: Journal of Geophysical Research: Atmospheres      Published on: 03/2021

YEAR: 2021     DOI: https://doi.org/10.1029/2020JD033098

electron precipitation; Radiation belts; ozone; Atmospheric Ionization; Van Allen Probes; FIREBIRD

Estimating the Impacts of Radiation Belt Electrons on Atmospheric Chemistry using FIREBIRD II and Van Allen Probes Observations

Abstract This study considers the impact of electron precipitation from Earth s radiation belts on atmospheric composition using observations from the NASA Van Allen Probes and NSF Focused Investigations of Relativistic Electron Burst Intensity, Range, and Dynamics (FIREBIRD II) CubeSats. Ratios of electron flux between the Van Allen Probes (in near-equatorial orbit in the radiation belts) and FIREBIRD II (in polar low Earth orbit) during spacecraft conjunctions (2015-2017) allow an estimate of precipitation into the atmosphere. Total Radiation Belt Electron Content, calculated from Van Allen Probes RBSP-ECT MagEIS data, identifies a sustained 10-day electron loss event in March 2013 that serves as an initial case study. Atmospheric ionization profiles, calculated by integrating monoenergetic ionization rates across the precipitating electron flux spectrum, provide input to the NCAR Whole Atmosphere Community Climate Model in order to quantify enhancements of atmospheric HOx and NOx and subsequent destruction of O3 in the middle atmosphere. Results suggest that current APEEP parameterizations of radiation belt electrons used in Coupled Model Intercomparison Project may underestimate the duration of events as well as higher energy electron contributions to atmospheric ionization and modeled NOx concentrations in the mesosphere and upper stratosphere.

Duderstadt, K.; Huang, C.-L.; Spence, H.; Smith, S.; Blake, J.; Crew, A.; Johnson, A.; Klumpar, D.; Marsh, D.; Sample, J.; Shumko, M.; Vitt, F.;

Published by: Journal of Geophysical Research: Atmospheres      Published on: 03/2021

YEAR: 2021     DOI: https://doi.org/10.1029/2020JD033098

electron precipitation; Radiation belts; ozone; Atmospheric Ionization; Van Allen Probes; FIREBIRD

Estimating the Impacts of Radiation Belt Electrons on Atmospheric Chemistry using FIREBIRD II and Van Allen Probes Observations

Abstract This study considers the impact of electron precipitation from Earth s radiation belts on atmospheric composition using observations from the NASA Van Allen Probes and NSF Focused Investigations of Relativistic Electron Burst Intensity, Range, and Dynamics (FIREBIRD II) CubeSats. Ratios of electron flux between the Van Allen Probes (in near-equatorial orbit in the radiation belts) and FIREBIRD II (in polar low Earth orbit) during spacecraft conjunctions (2015-2017) allow an estimate of precipitation into the atmosphere. Total Radiation Belt Electron Content, calculated from Van Allen Probes RBSP-ECT MagEIS data, identifies a sustained 10-day electron loss event in March 2013 that serves as an initial case study. Atmospheric ionization profiles, calculated by integrating monoenergetic ionization rates across the precipitating electron flux spectrum, provide input to the NCAR Whole Atmosphere Community Climate Model in order to quantify enhancements of atmospheric HOx and NOx and subsequent destruction of O3 in the middle atmosphere. Results suggest that current APEEP parameterizations of radiation belt electrons used in Coupled Model Intercomparison Project may underestimate the duration of events as well as higher energy electron contributions to atmospheric ionization and modeled NOx concentrations in the mesosphere and upper stratosphere.

Duderstadt, K.; Huang, C.-L.; Spence, H.; Smith, S.; Blake, J.; Crew, A.; Johnson, A.; Klumpar, D.; Marsh, D.; Sample, J.; Shumko, M.; Vitt, F.;

Published by: Journal of Geophysical Research: Atmospheres      Published on: 03/2021

YEAR: 2021     DOI: https://doi.org/10.1029/2020JD033098

electron precipitation; Radiation belts; ozone; Atmospheric Ionization; Van Allen Probes; FIREBIRD

Generation of realistic short chorus wave packets

Abstract Most lower-band chorus waves observed in the inner magnetosphere propagate under the form of moderately intense short wave packets with fast frequency and phase variations. Therefore, understanding the formation mechanism of such short wave packets is crucial for accurately modelling electron nonlinear acceleration or precipitation into the atmosphere by these waves. We compare chorus wave statistics from the Van Allen Probes with predictions from a simple model of short wave packet generation by wave superposition with resonance non-overlap, as well as with results from Vlasov Hybrid Simulations of chorus wave generation in an inhomogeneous magnetic field in the presence of one or two simultaneous triggering waves. We show that the observed moderate amplitude short chorus wave packets can be formed by a superposition of two or more waves generated near the magnetic equator with a sufficiently large frequency difference.

Nunn, D.; Zhang, X.-J.; Mourenas, D.; Artemyev, A.;

Published by: Geophysical Research Letters      Published on: 03/2021

YEAR: 2021     DOI: https://doi.org/10.1029/2020GL092178

chorus waves; Radiation belts; Wave-particle interaction; Van Allen Probes

Generation of realistic short chorus wave packets

Abstract Most lower-band chorus waves observed in the inner magnetosphere propagate under the form of moderately intense short wave packets with fast frequency and phase variations. Therefore, understanding the formation mechanism of such short wave packets is crucial for accurately modelling electron nonlinear acceleration or precipitation into the atmosphere by these waves. We compare chorus wave statistics from the Van Allen Probes with predictions from a simple model of short wave packet generation by wave superposition with resonance non-overlap, as well as with results from Vlasov Hybrid Simulations of chorus wave generation in an inhomogeneous magnetic field in the presence of one or two simultaneous triggering waves. We show that the observed moderate amplitude short chorus wave packets can be formed by a superposition of two or more waves generated near the magnetic equator with a sufficiently large frequency difference.

Nunn, D.; Zhang, X.-J.; Mourenas, D.; Artemyev, A.;

Published by: Geophysical Research Letters      Published on: 03/2021

YEAR: 2021     DOI: https://doi.org/10.1029/2020GL092178

chorus waves; Radiation belts; Wave-particle interaction; Van Allen Probes

Multi-event Analysis of Plasma and Field Variations in Source of Stable Auroral Red (SAR) Arcs in Inner Magnetosphere during Non-storm-time Substorms

Abstract Stable auroral red (SAR) arcs are optical events with dominant 630.0-nm emission caused by low-energy electron heat flux into the topside ionosphere from the inner magnetosphere. SAR arcs are observed at subauroral latitudes and often occur during the recovery phase of magnetic storms and substorms. Past studies concluded that these low-energy electrons were generated in the spatial overlap region between the outer plasmasphere and ring-current ions and suggested that Coulomb collisions between plasmaspheric electrons and ring-current ions are more feasible for the SAR-arc generation mechanism rather than Landau damping by electromagnetic ion cyclotron waves or kinetic Alfvén waves. This paper studies three separate SAR-arc events with conjunctions, using all-sky imagers and inner magnetospheric satellites (Arase and RBSP) during non-storm-time substorms on 19 December 2012 (event 1), 17 January 2015 (event 2), and 4 November 2019 (event 3). We evaluated for the first time the heat flux via Coulomb collision using full-energy-range ion data obtained by the satellites. The electron heat fluxes due to Coulomb collisions reached ∼109 eV/cm2/s for events 1 and 2, indicating that Coulomb collisions could have caused the SAR arcs. RBSP-A also observed local enhancements of 7–20-mHz electromagnetic wave power above the SAR arc in event 2. The heat flux for the freshly-detached SAR arc in event 3 reached ∼108 eV/cm2/s, which is insufficient to have caused the SAR arc. In event 3, local flux enhancement of electrons (<200 eV) and various electromagnetic waves were observed, these are likely to have caused the freshly-detached SAR arc.

Inaba, Yudai; Shiokawa, Kazuo; Oyama, Shin-Ichiro; Otsuka, Yuichi; Connors, Martin; Schofield, Ian; Miyoshi, Yoshizumi; Imajo, Shun; Shinbori, Atsuki; Gololobov, Artem; Kazama, Yoichi; Wang, Shiang-Yu; W. Y. Tam, Sunny; Chang, Tzu-Fang; Wang, Bo-Jhou; Asamura, Kazushi; Yokota, Shoichiro; Kasahara, Satoshi; Keika, Kunihiro; Hori, Tomoaki; Matsuoka, Ayako; Kasahara, Yoshiya; Kumamoto, Atsushi; Matsuda, Shoya; Kasaba, Yasumasa; Tsuchiya, Fuminori; Shoji, Masafumi; Kitahara, Masahiro; Nakamura, Satoko; Shinohara, Iku; Spence, Harlan; Reeves, Geoff; MacDowall, Robert; Smith, Charles; Wygant, John; Bonnell, John;

Published by: Journal of Geophysical Research: Space Physics      Published on: 03/2021

YEAR: 2021     DOI: https://doi.org/10.1029/2020JA029081

SAR arc; Arase; RBSP; ring current; Non-storm-time substorm; Plasmapause; Van Allen Probes

Multi-event Analysis of Plasma and Field Variations in Source of Stable Auroral Red (SAR) Arcs in Inner Magnetosphere during Non-storm-time Substorms

Abstract Stable auroral red (SAR) arcs are optical events with dominant 630.0-nm emission caused by low-energy electron heat flux into the topside ionosphere from the inner magnetosphere. SAR arcs are observed at subauroral latitudes and often occur during the recovery phase of magnetic storms and substorms. Past studies concluded that these low-energy electrons were generated in the spatial overlap region between the outer plasmasphere and ring-current ions and suggested that Coulomb collisions between plasmaspheric electrons and ring-current ions are more feasible for the SAR-arc generation mechanism rather than Landau damping by electromagnetic ion cyclotron waves or kinetic Alfvén waves. This paper studies three separate SAR-arc events with conjunctions, using all-sky imagers and inner magnetospheric satellites (Arase and RBSP) during non-storm-time substorms on 19 December 2012 (event 1), 17 January 2015 (event 2), and 4 November 2019 (event 3). We evaluated for the first time the heat flux via Coulomb collision using full-energy-range ion data obtained by the satellites. The electron heat fluxes due to Coulomb collisions reached ∼109 eV/cm2/s for events 1 and 2, indicating that Coulomb collisions could have caused the SAR arcs. RBSP-A also observed local enhancements of 7–20-mHz electromagnetic wave power above the SAR arc in event 2. The heat flux for the freshly-detached SAR arc in event 3 reached ∼108 eV/cm2/s, which is insufficient to have caused the SAR arc. In event 3, local flux enhancement of electrons (<200 eV) and various electromagnetic waves were observed, these are likely to have caused the freshly-detached SAR arc.

Inaba, Yudai; Shiokawa, Kazuo; Oyama, Shin-Ichiro; Otsuka, Yuichi; Connors, Martin; Schofield, Ian; Miyoshi, Yoshizumi; Imajo, Shun; Shinbori, Atsuki; Gololobov, Artem; Kazama, Yoichi; Wang, Shiang-Yu; W. Y. Tam, Sunny; Chang, Tzu-Fang; Wang, Bo-Jhou; Asamura, Kazushi; Yokota, Shoichiro; Kasahara, Satoshi; Keika, Kunihiro; Hori, Tomoaki; Matsuoka, Ayako; Kasahara, Yoshiya; Kumamoto, Atsushi; Matsuda, Shoya; Kasaba, Yasumasa; Tsuchiya, Fuminori; Shoji, Masafumi; Kitahara, Masahiro; Nakamura, Satoko; Shinohara, Iku; Spence, Harlan; Reeves, Geoff; MacDowall, Robert; Smith, Charles; Wygant, John; Bonnell, John;

Published by: Journal of Geophysical Research: Space Physics      Published on: 03/2021

YEAR: 2021     DOI: https://doi.org/10.1029/2020JA029081

SAR arc; Arase; RBSP; ring current; Non-storm-time substorm; Plasmapause; Van Allen Probes

Multi-event Analysis of Plasma and Field Variations in Source of Stable Auroral Red (SAR) Arcs in Inner Magnetosphere during Non-storm-time Substorms

Abstract Stable auroral red (SAR) arcs are optical events with dominant 630.0-nm emission caused by low-energy electron heat flux into the topside ionosphere from the inner magnetosphere. SAR arcs are observed at subauroral latitudes and often occur during the recovery phase of magnetic storms and substorms. Past studies concluded that these low-energy electrons were generated in the spatial overlap region between the outer plasmasphere and ring-current ions and suggested that Coulomb collisions between plasmaspheric electrons and ring-current ions are more feasible for the SAR-arc generation mechanism rather than Landau damping by electromagnetic ion cyclotron waves or kinetic Alfvén waves. This paper studies three separate SAR-arc events with conjunctions, using all-sky imagers and inner magnetospheric satellites (Arase and RBSP) during non-storm-time substorms on 19 December 2012 (event 1), 17 January 2015 (event 2), and 4 November 2019 (event 3). We evaluated for the first time the heat flux via Coulomb collision using full-energy-range ion data obtained by the satellites. The electron heat fluxes due to Coulomb collisions reached ∼109 eV/cm2/s for events 1 and 2, indicating that Coulomb collisions could have caused the SAR arcs. RBSP-A also observed local enhancements of 7–20-mHz electromagnetic wave power above the SAR arc in event 2. The heat flux for the freshly-detached SAR arc in event 3 reached ∼108 eV/cm2/s, which is insufficient to have caused the SAR arc. In event 3, local flux enhancement of electrons (<200 eV) and various electromagnetic waves were observed, these are likely to have caused the freshly-detached SAR arc.

Inaba, Yudai; Shiokawa, Kazuo; Oyama, Shin-Ichiro; Otsuka, Yuichi; Connors, Martin; Schofield, Ian; Miyoshi, Yoshizumi; Imajo, Shun; Shinbori, Atsuki; Gololobov, Artem; Kazama, Yoichi; Wang, Shiang-Yu; W. Y. Tam, Sunny; Chang, Tzu-Fang; Wang, Bo-Jhou; Asamura, Kazushi; Yokota, Shoichiro; Kasahara, Satoshi; Keika, Kunihiro; Hori, Tomoaki; Matsuoka, Ayako; Kasahara, Yoshiya; Kumamoto, Atsushi; Matsuda, Shoya; Kasaba, Yasumasa; Tsuchiya, Fuminori; Shoji, Masafumi; Kitahara, Masahiro; Nakamura, Satoko; Shinohara, Iku; Spence, Harlan; Reeves, Geoff; MacDowall, Robert; Smith, Charles; Wygant, John; Bonnell, John;

Published by: Journal of Geophysical Research: Space Physics      Published on: 03/2021

YEAR: 2021     DOI: https://doi.org/10.1029/2020JA029081

SAR arc; Arase; RBSP; ring current; Non-storm-time substorm; Plasmapause; Van Allen Probes

Multi-event Analysis of Plasma and Field Variations in Source of Stable Auroral Red (SAR) Arcs in Inner Magnetosphere during Non-storm-time Substorms

Abstract Stable auroral red (SAR) arcs are optical events with dominant 630.0-nm emission caused by low-energy electron heat flux into the topside ionosphere from the inner magnetosphere. SAR arcs are observed at subauroral latitudes and often occur during the recovery phase of magnetic storms and substorms. Past studies concluded that these low-energy electrons were generated in the spatial overlap region between the outer plasmasphere and ring-current ions and suggested that Coulomb collisions between plasmaspheric electrons and ring-current ions are more feasible for the SAR-arc generation mechanism rather than Landau damping by electromagnetic ion cyclotron waves or kinetic Alfvén waves. This paper studies three separate SAR-arc events with conjunctions, using all-sky imagers and inner magnetospheric satellites (Arase and RBSP) during non-storm-time substorms on 19 December 2012 (event 1), 17 January 2015 (event 2), and 4 November 2019 (event 3). We evaluated for the first time the heat flux via Coulomb collision using full-energy-range ion data obtained by the satellites. The electron heat fluxes due to Coulomb collisions reached ∼109 eV/cm2/s for events 1 and 2, indicating that Coulomb collisions could have caused the SAR arcs. RBSP-A also observed local enhancements of 7–20-mHz electromagnetic wave power above the SAR arc in event 2. The heat flux for the freshly-detached SAR arc in event 3 reached ∼108 eV/cm2/s, which is insufficient to have caused the SAR arc. In event 3, local flux enhancement of electrons (<200 eV) and various electromagnetic waves were observed, these are likely to have caused the freshly-detached SAR arc.

Inaba, Yudai; Shiokawa, Kazuo; Oyama, Shin-Ichiro; Otsuka, Yuichi; Connors, Martin; Schofield, Ian; Miyoshi, Yoshizumi; Imajo, Shun; Shinbori, Atsuki; Gololobov, Artem; Kazama, Yoichi; Wang, Shiang-Yu; W. Y. Tam, Sunny; Chang, Tzu-Fang; Wang, Bo-Jhou; Asamura, Kazushi; Yokota, Shoichiro; Kasahara, Satoshi; Keika, Kunihiro; Hori, Tomoaki; Matsuoka, Ayako; Kasahara, Yoshiya; Kumamoto, Atsushi; Matsuda, Shoya; Kasaba, Yasumasa; Tsuchiya, Fuminori; Shoji, Masafumi; Kitahara, Masahiro; Nakamura, Satoko; Shinohara, Iku; Spence, Harlan; Reeves, Geoff; MacDowall, Robert; Smith, Charles; Wygant, John; Bonnell, John;

Published by: Journal of Geophysical Research: Space Physics      Published on: 03/2021

YEAR: 2021     DOI: https://doi.org/10.1029/2020JA029081

SAR arc; Arase; RBSP; ring current; Non-storm-time substorm; Plasmapause; Van Allen Probes

Multi-event Analysis of Plasma and Field Variations in Source of Stable Auroral Red (SAR) Arcs in Inner Magnetosphere during Non-storm-time Substorms

Abstract Stable auroral red (SAR) arcs are optical events with dominant 630.0-nm emission caused by low-energy electron heat flux into the topside ionosphere from the inner magnetosphere. SAR arcs are observed at subauroral latitudes and often occur during the recovery phase of magnetic storms and substorms. Past studies concluded that these low-energy electrons were generated in the spatial overlap region between the outer plasmasphere and ring-current ions and suggested that Coulomb collisions between plasmaspheric electrons and ring-current ions are more feasible for the SAR-arc generation mechanism rather than Landau damping by electromagnetic ion cyclotron waves or kinetic Alfvén waves. This paper studies three separate SAR-arc events with conjunctions, using all-sky imagers and inner magnetospheric satellites (Arase and RBSP) during non-storm-time substorms on 19 December 2012 (event 1), 17 January 2015 (event 2), and 4 November 2019 (event 3). We evaluated for the first time the heat flux via Coulomb collision using full-energy-range ion data obtained by the satellites. The electron heat fluxes due to Coulomb collisions reached ∼109 eV/cm2/s for events 1 and 2, indicating that Coulomb collisions could have caused the SAR arcs. RBSP-A also observed local enhancements of 7–20-mHz electromagnetic wave power above the SAR arc in event 2. The heat flux for the freshly-detached SAR arc in event 3 reached ∼108 eV/cm2/s, which is insufficient to have caused the SAR arc. In event 3, local flux enhancement of electrons (<200 eV) and various electromagnetic waves were observed, these are likely to have caused the freshly-detached SAR arc.

Inaba, Yudai; Shiokawa, Kazuo; Oyama, Shin-Ichiro; Otsuka, Yuichi; Connors, Martin; Schofield, Ian; Miyoshi, Yoshizumi; Imajo, Shun; Shinbori, Atsuki; Gololobov, Artem; Kazama, Yoichi; Wang, Shiang-Yu; W. Y. Tam, Sunny; Chang, Tzu-Fang; Wang, Bo-Jhou; Asamura, Kazushi; Yokota, Shoichiro; Kasahara, Satoshi; Keika, Kunihiro; Hori, Tomoaki; Matsuoka, Ayako; Kasahara, Yoshiya; Kumamoto, Atsushi; Matsuda, Shoya; Kasaba, Yasumasa; Tsuchiya, Fuminori; Shoji, Masafumi; Kitahara, Masahiro; Nakamura, Satoko; Shinohara, Iku; Spence, Harlan; Reeves, Geoff; MacDowall, Robert; Smith, Charles; Wygant, John; Bonnell, John;

Published by: Journal of Geophysical Research: Space Physics      Published on: 03/2021

YEAR: 2021     DOI: https://doi.org/10.1029/2020JA029081

SAR arc; Arase; RBSP; ring current; Non-storm-time substorm; Plasmapause; Van Allen Probes

A comparative study on the distributions of incoherent and coherent plasmaspheric hiss

Abstract We perform a comparative study on the distributions of incoherent and coherent plasmaspheric hiss, based on the Van Allen Probe data. The statistics show that incoherent hiss ( ∼10–20 pT) is widely distributed in dayside plasmasphere, with peak frequencies below 500 Hz; intense coherent hiss (amplitudes up to 80 pT) occurs in outer plasmasphere of L > 4 (L denotes the L-shell.), whose frequency increases with ambient magnetic field significantly. The Poynting flux analysis indicates that incoherent hiss generally propagates omni-directionally inside the plasmasphere, with features of external sources; the coherent hiss propagates away from the equatorial region in outer plasmasphere and has a reversed direction in inner plasmasphere, indicating two different wave sources by local generation and ducted lightning generated whistler (LGW) respectively. This comparative study helps us to better understand the origination of plasmaspheric hiss. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.

He, Zhaoguo; Yu, Jiang; Li, Kun; Liu, Nigang; Chen, Zewen; Cui, Jun;

Published by: Geophysical Research Letters      Published on: 03/2021

YEAR: 2021     DOI: https://doi.org/10.1029/2021GL092902

Van Allen Probes

A comparative study on the distributions of incoherent and coherent plasmaspheric hiss

Abstract We perform a comparative study on the distributions of incoherent and coherent plasmaspheric hiss, based on the Van Allen Probe data. The statistics show that incoherent hiss ( ∼10–20 pT) is widely distributed in dayside plasmasphere, with peak frequencies below 500 Hz; intense coherent hiss (amplitudes up to 80 pT) occurs in outer plasmasphere of L > 4 (L denotes the L-shell.), whose frequency increases with ambient magnetic field significantly. The Poynting flux analysis indicates that incoherent hiss generally propagates omni-directionally inside the plasmasphere, with features of external sources; the coherent hiss propagates away from the equatorial region in outer plasmasphere and has a reversed direction in inner plasmasphere, indicating two different wave sources by local generation and ducted lightning generated whistler (LGW) respectively. This comparative study helps us to better understand the origination of plasmaspheric hiss. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.

He, Zhaoguo; Yu, Jiang; Li, Kun; Liu, Nigang; Chen, Zewen; Cui, Jun;

Published by: Geophysical Research Letters      Published on: 03/2021

YEAR: 2021     DOI: https://doi.org/10.1029/2021GL092902

Van Allen Probes

In situ Observations of Whistler-mode Chorus Waves Guided by Density Ducts

Abstract In this paper, we report the proof of the existence of density ducts in the Earth’s magnetosphere by studying in situ observations of whistler-mode chorus waves using NASA’s Van Allen Probe-A data. Chorus waves, originally excited inside the density ducts with wave normal angles (WNAs) smaller than the Gendrin angle at near equator region, are efficiently confined to a limited area inside density ducts (i.e., ducted regions), and remain with small WNAs as they propagate towards high latitudes. The ducted region becomes narrower for the higher-frequency waves. Chorus waves with WNAs larger than the Gendrin angle are not guided by density ducts. Our study reveals that density ducts can effectively control the property and distribution of chorus waves, and may ultimately regulate electron dynamics in the Earth’s or other planetary radiation belts. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.

Chen, Rui; Gao, Xinliang; Lu, Quanming; Chen, Lunjin; Tsurutani, Bruce; Li, Wen; Ni, Binbin; Wang, Shui;

Published by: Journal of Geophysical Research: Space Physics      Published on: 03/2021

YEAR: 2021     DOI: https://doi.org/10.1029/2020JA028814

Radiation belt; Chorus wave; density duct; ducted region; Van Allen Probes

In situ Observations of Whistler-mode Chorus Waves Guided by Density Ducts

Abstract In this paper, we report the proof of the existence of density ducts in the Earth’s magnetosphere by studying in situ observations of whistler-mode chorus waves using NASA’s Van Allen Probe-A data. Chorus waves, originally excited inside the density ducts with wave normal angles (WNAs) smaller than the Gendrin angle at near equator region, are efficiently confined to a limited area inside density ducts (i.e., ducted regions), and remain with small WNAs as they propagate towards high latitudes. The ducted region becomes narrower for the higher-frequency waves. Chorus waves with WNAs larger than the Gendrin angle are not guided by density ducts. Our study reveals that density ducts can effectively control the property and distribution of chorus waves, and may ultimately regulate electron dynamics in the Earth’s or other planetary radiation belts. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.

Chen, Rui; Gao, Xinliang; Lu, Quanming; Chen, Lunjin; Tsurutani, Bruce; Li, Wen; Ni, Binbin; Wang, Shui;

Published by: Journal of Geophysical Research: Space Physics      Published on: 03/2021

YEAR: 2021     DOI: https://doi.org/10.1029/2020JA028814

Radiation belt; Chorus wave; density duct; ducted region; Van Allen Probes

Nodal Structure of Toroidal Standing Alfvén Waves and Its Implication for Field Line Mass Density Distribution

Abstract We have conducted a statistical study of toroidal mode standing Alfvén waves detected by the Van Allen Probes spacecraft in the dayside inner magnetosphere, with an emphasis on the nodal structure of the fundamental through fifth harmonics. We developed a technique to accurately assign harmonic mode numbers to peaks in the power spectra of the electric (Eν) and magnetic (Bϕ) field components of toroidal waves and then determine the spectral intensities of Eν and Bϕ and the coherence and cross-phase between these field components for each harmonic. The magnetic latitude (MLAT) dependence of these quantities was statistically examined to determine the location of the nodes. In addition to the equatorial nodes located close to the equator (MLAT = 0), we identified several nodes away from the equator within the MLAT range from − 20° to + 20°. We found that the Eν-Bϕ cross-phase is very close to ±90° except near the nodes, indicating that the fixed-end approximation is appropriate in modeling dayside toroidal waves. Noting that the node latitudes depend on the distribution of the mass density (ρ) along the background magnetic field, we inferred the distribution from the nodes observed at L = 4–6. If we adopt a model field line mass density (ρ) distribution of the form ρ ∝ (1/r)α, where r is geocentric distance to the field line and α is a free parameter, the statistically determined node latitudes indicate that α ∼ 1.5 is appropriate for both the plasmasphere and the plasmatrough.

Takahashi, Kazue; Denton, Richard;

Published by: Journal of Geophysical Research: Space Physics      Published on: 03/2021

YEAR: 2021     DOI: https://doi.org/10.1029/2020JA028981

Toroidal Alfven waves; inner magnetosphere; Nodal structure; Field line mass density distribution; Van Allen Probes

ULF Wave Driven Radial Diffusion During Geomagnetic Storms: A statistical analysis of Van Allen Probes observations

Abstract The impact of radial diffusion in storm time radiation belt dynamics is well-debated. In this study we quantify the changes and variability in radial diffusion coefficients during geomagnetic storms. A statistical analysis of Van Allen Probes data (2012 − 2019) is conducted to obtain measurements of the magnetic and electric power spectral densities for Ultra Low Frequency (ULF) waves, and corresponding radial diffusion coefficients. The results show global wave power enhancements occur during the storm main phase, and continue into the recovery phase. Local time asymmetries show sources of wave power are both external solar wind driving and internal sources from coupling with ring current ions and substorms. Wave power enhancements are also observed at low L values (L < 4). The accessibility of wave power to low L is attributed to a depression of the Alfvén continuum. The increased wave power drives enhancements in both the magnetic and electric field diffusion coefficients by more than an order of magnitude. Significant variability in diffusion coefficients is observed, with values ranging over several orders of magnitude. A comparison to the Kp parameterised empirical model of Ozeke et al. (2014) is conducted and indicates important differences during storm times. Although the electric field diffusion coefficient is relatively well described by the empirical model, the magnetic field diffusion coefficient is approximately ∼ 10 times larger than predicted. We discuss how differences could be attributed to dataset limitations and assumptions. Alternative storm-time radial diffusion coefficients are provided as a function of L* and storm phase.

Sandhu, J.; Rae, I.; Wygant, J.; Breneman, A.; Tian, S.; Watt, C.; Horne, R.; Ozeke, L.; Georgiou, M.; Walach, M.-T.;

Published by: Journal of Geophysical Research: Space Physics      Published on: 03/2021

YEAR: 2021     DOI: https://doi.org/10.1029/2020JA029024

ULF waves; radial diffusion; outer radiation belt; Van Allen Probes; Geomagnetic storms

ULF Wave Driven Radial Diffusion During Geomagnetic Storms: A statistical analysis of Van Allen Probes observations

Abstract The impact of radial diffusion in storm time radiation belt dynamics is well-debated. In this study we quantify the changes and variability in radial diffusion coefficients during geomagnetic storms. A statistical analysis of Van Allen Probes data (2012 − 2019) is conducted to obtain measurements of the magnetic and electric power spectral densities for Ultra Low Frequency (ULF) waves, and corresponding radial diffusion coefficients. The results show global wave power enhancements occur during the storm main phase, and continue into the recovery phase. Local time asymmetries show sources of wave power are both external solar wind driving and internal sources from coupling with ring current ions and substorms. Wave power enhancements are also observed at low L values (L < 4). The accessibility of wave power to low L is attributed to a depression of the Alfvén continuum. The increased wave power drives enhancements in both the magnetic and electric field diffusion coefficients by more than an order of magnitude. Significant variability in diffusion coefficients is observed, with values ranging over several orders of magnitude. A comparison to the Kp parameterised empirical model of Ozeke et al. (2014) is conducted and indicates important differences during storm times. Although the electric field diffusion coefficient is relatively well described by the empirical model, the magnetic field diffusion coefficient is approximately ∼ 10 times larger than predicted. We discuss how differences could be attributed to dataset limitations and assumptions. Alternative storm-time radial diffusion coefficients are provided as a function of L* and storm phase.

Sandhu, J.; Rae, I.; Wygant, J.; Breneman, A.; Tian, S.; Watt, C.; Horne, R.; Ozeke, L.; Georgiou, M.; Walach, M.-T.;

Published by: Journal of Geophysical Research: Space Physics      Published on: 03/2021

YEAR: 2021     DOI: https://doi.org/10.1029/2020JA029024

ULF waves; radial diffusion; outer radiation belt; Van Allen Probes; Geomagnetic storms

ULF Wave Driven Radial Diffusion During Geomagnetic Storms: A statistical analysis of Van Allen Probes observations

Abstract The impact of radial diffusion in storm time radiation belt dynamics is well-debated. In this study we quantify the changes and variability in radial diffusion coefficients during geomagnetic storms. A statistical analysis of Van Allen Probes data (2012 − 2019) is conducted to obtain measurements of the magnetic and electric power spectral densities for Ultra Low Frequency (ULF) waves, and corresponding radial diffusion coefficients. The results show global wave power enhancements occur during the storm main phase, and continue into the recovery phase. Local time asymmetries show sources of wave power are both external solar wind driving and internal sources from coupling with ring current ions and substorms. Wave power enhancements are also observed at low L values (L < 4). The accessibility of wave power to low L is attributed to a depression of the Alfvén continuum. The increased wave power drives enhancements in both the magnetic and electric field diffusion coefficients by more than an order of magnitude. Significant variability in diffusion coefficients is observed, with values ranging over several orders of magnitude. A comparison to the Kp parameterised empirical model of Ozeke et al. (2014) is conducted and indicates important differences during storm times. Although the electric field diffusion coefficient is relatively well described by the empirical model, the magnetic field diffusion coefficient is approximately ∼ 10 times larger than predicted. We discuss how differences could be attributed to dataset limitations and assumptions. Alternative storm-time radial diffusion coefficients are provided as a function of L* and storm phase.

Sandhu, J.; Rae, I.; Wygant, J.; Breneman, A.; Tian, S.; Watt, C.; Horne, R.; Ozeke, L.; Georgiou, M.; Walach, M.-T.;

Published by: Journal of Geophysical Research: Space Physics      Published on: 03/2021

YEAR: 2021     DOI: https://doi.org/10.1029/2020JA029024

ULF waves; radial diffusion; outer radiation belt; Van Allen Probes; Geomagnetic storms

ULF Wave Driven Radial Diffusion During Geomagnetic Storms: A statistical analysis of Van Allen Probes observations

Abstract The impact of radial diffusion in storm time radiation belt dynamics is well-debated. In this study we quantify the changes and variability in radial diffusion coefficients during geomagnetic storms. A statistical analysis of Van Allen Probes data (2012 − 2019) is conducted to obtain measurements of the magnetic and electric power spectral densities for Ultra Low Frequency (ULF) waves, and corresponding radial diffusion coefficients. The results show global wave power enhancements occur during the storm main phase, and continue into the recovery phase. Local time asymmetries show sources of wave power are both external solar wind driving and internal sources from coupling with ring current ions and substorms. Wave power enhancements are also observed at low L values (L < 4). The accessibility of wave power to low L is attributed to a depression of the Alfvén continuum. The increased wave power drives enhancements in both the magnetic and electric field diffusion coefficients by more than an order of magnitude. Significant variability in diffusion coefficients is observed, with values ranging over several orders of magnitude. A comparison to the Kp parameterised empirical model of Ozeke et al. (2014) is conducted and indicates important differences during storm times. Although the electric field diffusion coefficient is relatively well described by the empirical model, the magnetic field diffusion coefficient is approximately ∼ 10 times larger than predicted. We discuss how differences could be attributed to dataset limitations and assumptions. Alternative storm-time radial diffusion coefficients are provided as a function of L* and storm phase.

Sandhu, J.; Rae, I.; Wygant, J.; Breneman, A.; Tian, S.; Watt, C.; Horne, R.; Ozeke, L.; Georgiou, M.; Walach, M.-T.;

Published by: Journal of Geophysical Research: Space Physics      Published on: 03/2021

YEAR: 2021     DOI: https://doi.org/10.1029/2020JA029024

ULF waves; radial diffusion; outer radiation belt; Van Allen Probes; Geomagnetic storms

ULF Wave Driven Radial Diffusion During Geomagnetic Storms: A statistical analysis of Van Allen Probes observations

Abstract The impact of radial diffusion in storm time radiation belt dynamics is well-debated. In this study we quantify the changes and variability in radial diffusion coefficients during geomagnetic storms. A statistical analysis of Van Allen Probes data (2012 − 2019) is conducted to obtain measurements of the magnetic and electric power spectral densities for Ultra Low Frequency (ULF) waves, and corresponding radial diffusion coefficients. The results show global wave power enhancements occur during the storm main phase, and continue into the recovery phase. Local time asymmetries show sources of wave power are both external solar wind driving and internal sources from coupling with ring current ions and substorms. Wave power enhancements are also observed at low L values (L < 4). The accessibility of wave power to low L is attributed to a depression of the Alfvén continuum. The increased wave power drives enhancements in both the magnetic and electric field diffusion coefficients by more than an order of magnitude. Significant variability in diffusion coefficients is observed, with values ranging over several orders of magnitude. A comparison to the Kp parameterised empirical model of Ozeke et al. (2014) is conducted and indicates important differences during storm times. Although the electric field diffusion coefficient is relatively well described by the empirical model, the magnetic field diffusion coefficient is approximately ∼ 10 times larger than predicted. We discuss how differences could be attributed to dataset limitations and assumptions. Alternative storm-time radial diffusion coefficients are provided as a function of L* and storm phase.

Sandhu, J.; Rae, I.; Wygant, J.; Breneman, A.; Tian, S.; Watt, C.; Horne, R.; Ozeke, L.; Georgiou, M.; Walach, M.-T.;

Published by: Journal of Geophysical Research: Space Physics      Published on: 03/2021

YEAR: 2021     DOI: https://doi.org/10.1029/2020JA029024

ULF waves; radial diffusion; outer radiation belt; Van Allen Probes; Geomagnetic storms

Van Allen probe observations of disappearance, recovery and patchiness of plasmaspheric hiss following two consecutive interplanetary shocks: First results

Abstract We present, for the first time, a plasmaspheric hiss event observed by the Van Allen probes in response to two successive interplanetary shocks occurring within an interval of ∼2 hours on December 19, 2015. The first shock arrived at 16:16 UT and caused disappearance of hiss for ∼30 minutes. Combined effect of plasmapause crossing, significant Landau damping by suprathermal electrons and their gradual removal by magnetospheric compression led to the disappearance of hiss. Calculation of electron phase space density and linear wave growth rates showed that the shock did not change the growth rate of whistler waves within the core frequency range of plasmaspheric hiss (0.1 - 0.5 kHz) during this interval making conditions unfavorable for the generation of hiss. The recovery began at ∼16:45 UT which is attributed to an enhancement in local plasma instability initiated by the first shock-induced substorm and additional possible contribution from chorus waves. This time, the wave growth rate peaked within the core frequency range ( ∼350 Hz). The second shock arrived at 18:02 UT and generated patchy hiss persisting up to ∼19:00 UT. It is shown that an enhanced growth rate and additional contribution from shock-induced poloidal Pc5 mode (periodicity ∼240 sec) ULF waves resulted in the excitation of hiss waves during this period. The hiss wave amplitudes were found to be additionally modulated by background plasma density and fluctuating plasmapause location. The investigation highlights the important roles of interplanetary shocks, substorms, ULF waves and background plasma density in the variability of plasmaspheric hiss.

Chakraborty, S.; Chakrabarty, D.; Reeves, G.; Baker, D.; Claudepierre, S.; Breneman, A.; Hartley, D.; Larsen, B.;

Published by: Journal of Geophysical Research: Space Physics      Published on: 03/2021

YEAR: 2021     DOI: https://doi.org/10.1029/2020JA028873

Plasmaspheric Hiss; Van Allen Probe; Interplanetary shocks; substorms; Whistlers; ULF waves; Van Allen Probes

Van Allen probe observations of disappearance, recovery and patchiness of plasmaspheric hiss following two consecutive interplanetary shocks: First results

Abstract We present, for the first time, a plasmaspheric hiss event observed by the Van Allen probes in response to two successive interplanetary shocks occurring within an interval of ∼2 hours on December 19, 2015. The first shock arrived at 16:16 UT and caused disappearance of hiss for ∼30 minutes. Combined effect of plasmapause crossing, significant Landau damping by suprathermal electrons and their gradual removal by magnetospheric compression led to the disappearance of hiss. Calculation of electron phase space density and linear wave growth rates showed that the shock did not change the growth rate of whistler waves within the core frequency range of plasmaspheric hiss (0.1 - 0.5 kHz) during this interval making conditions unfavorable for the generation of hiss. The recovery began at ∼16:45 UT which is attributed to an enhancement in local plasma instability initiated by the first shock-induced substorm and additional possible contribution from chorus waves. This time, the wave growth rate peaked within the core frequency range ( ∼350 Hz). The second shock arrived at 18:02 UT and generated patchy hiss persisting up to ∼19:00 UT. It is shown that an enhanced growth rate and additional contribution from shock-induced poloidal Pc5 mode (periodicity ∼240 sec) ULF waves resulted in the excitation of hiss waves during this period. The hiss wave amplitudes were found to be additionally modulated by background plasma density and fluctuating plasmapause location. The investigation highlights the important roles of interplanetary shocks, substorms, ULF waves and background plasma density in the variability of plasmaspheric hiss.

Chakraborty, S.; Chakrabarty, D.; Reeves, G.; Baker, D.; Claudepierre, S.; Breneman, A.; Hartley, D.; Larsen, B.;

Published by: Journal of Geophysical Research: Space Physics      Published on: 03/2021

YEAR: 2021     DOI: https://doi.org/10.1029/2020JA028873

Plasmaspheric Hiss; Van Allen Probe; Interplanetary shocks; substorms; Whistlers; ULF waves; Van Allen Probes

Van Allen probe observations of disappearance, recovery and patchiness of plasmaspheric hiss following two consecutive interplanetary shocks: First results

Abstract We present, for the first time, a plasmaspheric hiss event observed by the Van Allen probes in response to two successive interplanetary shocks occurring within an interval of ∼2 hours on December 19, 2015. The first shock arrived at 16:16 UT and caused disappearance of hiss for ∼30 minutes. Combined effect of plasmapause crossing, significant Landau damping by suprathermal electrons and their gradual removal by magnetospheric compression led to the disappearance of hiss. Calculation of electron phase space density and linear wave growth rates showed that the shock did not change the growth rate of whistler waves within the core frequency range of plasmaspheric hiss (0.1 - 0.5 kHz) during this interval making conditions unfavorable for the generation of hiss. The recovery began at ∼16:45 UT which is attributed to an enhancement in local plasma instability initiated by the first shock-induced substorm and additional possible contribution from chorus waves. This time, the wave growth rate peaked within the core frequency range ( ∼350 Hz). The second shock arrived at 18:02 UT and generated patchy hiss persisting up to ∼19:00 UT. It is shown that an enhanced growth rate and additional contribution from shock-induced poloidal Pc5 mode (periodicity ∼240 sec) ULF waves resulted in the excitation of hiss waves during this period. The hiss wave amplitudes were found to be additionally modulated by background plasma density and fluctuating plasmapause location. The investigation highlights the important roles of interplanetary shocks, substorms, ULF waves and background plasma density in the variability of plasmaspheric hiss.

Chakraborty, S.; Chakrabarty, D.; Reeves, G.; Baker, D.; Claudepierre, S.; Breneman, A.; Hartley, D.; Larsen, B.;

Published by: Journal of Geophysical Research: Space Physics      Published on: 03/2021

YEAR: 2021     DOI: https://doi.org/10.1029/2020JA028873

Plasmaspheric Hiss; Van Allen Probe; Interplanetary shocks; substorms; Whistlers; ULF waves; Van Allen Probes

Van Allen probe observations of disappearance, recovery and patchiness of plasmaspheric hiss following two consecutive interplanetary shocks: First results

Abstract We present, for the first time, a plasmaspheric hiss event observed by the Van Allen probes in response to two successive interplanetary shocks occurring within an interval of ∼2 hours on December 19, 2015. The first shock arrived at 16:16 UT and caused disappearance of hiss for ∼30 minutes. Combined effect of plasmapause crossing, significant Landau damping by suprathermal electrons and their gradual removal by magnetospheric compression led to the disappearance of hiss. Calculation of electron phase space density and linear wave growth rates showed that the shock did not change the growth rate of whistler waves within the core frequency range of plasmaspheric hiss (0.1 - 0.5 kHz) during this interval making conditions unfavorable for the generation of hiss. The recovery began at ∼16:45 UT which is attributed to an enhancement in local plasma instability initiated by the first shock-induced substorm and additional possible contribution from chorus waves. This time, the wave growth rate peaked within the core frequency range ( ∼350 Hz). The second shock arrived at 18:02 UT and generated patchy hiss persisting up to ∼19:00 UT. It is shown that an enhanced growth rate and additional contribution from shock-induced poloidal Pc5 mode (periodicity ∼240 sec) ULF waves resulted in the excitation of hiss waves during this period. The hiss wave amplitudes were found to be additionally modulated by background plasma density and fluctuating plasmapause location. The investigation highlights the important roles of interplanetary shocks, substorms, ULF waves and background plasma density in the variability of plasmaspheric hiss.

Chakraborty, S.; Chakrabarty, D.; Reeves, G.; Baker, D.; Claudepierre, S.; Breneman, A.; Hartley, D.; Larsen, B.;

Published by: Journal of Geophysical Research: Space Physics      Published on: 03/2021

YEAR: 2021     DOI: https://doi.org/10.1029/2020JA028873

Plasmaspheric Hiss; Van Allen Probe; Interplanetary shocks; substorms; Whistlers; ULF waves; Van Allen Probes

Van Allen probe observations of disappearance, recovery and patchiness of plasmaspheric hiss following two consecutive interplanetary shocks: First results

Abstract We present, for the first time, a plasmaspheric hiss event observed by the Van Allen probes in response to two successive interplanetary shocks occurring within an interval of ∼2 hours on December 19, 2015. The first shock arrived at 16:16 UT and caused disappearance of hiss for ∼30 minutes. Combined effect of plasmapause crossing, significant Landau damping by suprathermal electrons and their gradual removal by magnetospheric compression led to the disappearance of hiss. Calculation of electron phase space density and linear wave growth rates showed that the shock did not change the growth rate of whistler waves within the core frequency range of plasmaspheric hiss (0.1 - 0.5 kHz) during this interval making conditions unfavorable for the generation of hiss. The recovery began at ∼16:45 UT which is attributed to an enhancement in local plasma instability initiated by the first shock-induced substorm and additional possible contribution from chorus waves. This time, the wave growth rate peaked within the core frequency range ( ∼350 Hz). The second shock arrived at 18:02 UT and generated patchy hiss persisting up to ∼19:00 UT. It is shown that an enhanced growth rate and additional contribution from shock-induced poloidal Pc5 mode (periodicity ∼240 sec) ULF waves resulted in the excitation of hiss waves during this period. The hiss wave amplitudes were found to be additionally modulated by background plasma density and fluctuating plasmapause location. The investigation highlights the important roles of interplanetary shocks, substorms, ULF waves and background plasma density in the variability of plasmaspheric hiss.

Chakraborty, S.; Chakrabarty, D.; Reeves, G.; Baker, D.; Claudepierre, S.; Breneman, A.; Hartley, D.; Larsen, B.;

Published by: Journal of Geophysical Research: Space Physics      Published on: 03/2021

YEAR: 2021     DOI: https://doi.org/10.1029/2020JA028873

Plasmaspheric Hiss; Van Allen Probe; Interplanetary shocks; substorms; Whistlers; ULF waves; Van Allen Probes

Van Allen probe observations of disappearance, recovery and patchiness of plasmaspheric hiss following two consecutive interplanetary shocks: First results

Abstract We present, for the first time, a plasmaspheric hiss event observed by the Van Allen probes in response to two successive interplanetary shocks occurring within an interval of ∼2 hours on December 19, 2015. The first shock arrived at 16:16 UT and caused disappearance of hiss for ∼30 minutes. Combined effect of plasmapause crossing, significant Landau damping by suprathermal electrons and their gradual removal by magnetospheric compression led to the disappearance of hiss. Calculation of electron phase space density and linear wave growth rates showed that the shock did not change the growth rate of whistler waves within the core frequency range of plasmaspheric hiss (0.1 - 0.5 kHz) during this interval making conditions unfavorable for the generation of hiss. The recovery began at ∼16:45 UT which is attributed to an enhancement in local plasma instability initiated by the first shock-induced substorm and additional possible contribution from chorus waves. This time, the wave growth rate peaked within the core frequency range ( ∼350 Hz). The second shock arrived at 18:02 UT and generated patchy hiss persisting up to ∼19:00 UT. It is shown that an enhanced growth rate and additional contribution from shock-induced poloidal Pc5 mode (periodicity ∼240 sec) ULF waves resulted in the excitation of hiss waves during this period. The hiss wave amplitudes were found to be additionally modulated by background plasma density and fluctuating plasmapause location. The investigation highlights the important roles of interplanetary shocks, substorms, ULF waves and background plasma density in the variability of plasmaspheric hiss.

Chakraborty, S.; Chakrabarty, D.; Reeves, G.; Baker, D.; Claudepierre, S.; Breneman, A.; Hartley, D.; Larsen, B.;

Published by: Journal of Geophysical Research: Space Physics      Published on: 03/2021

YEAR: 2021     DOI: https://doi.org/10.1029/2020JA028873

Plasmaspheric Hiss; Van Allen Probe; Interplanetary shocks; substorms; Whistlers; ULF waves; Van Allen Probes

A Comparison of the Location of the Mid-latitude Trough and Plasmapause Boundary

Abstract We have compared the location of the mid-latitude trough observed in two dimensional vertical total electron content (vTEC) maps with four plasmapause boundary models, Radiation Belt Storm Probes observations, and IMAGE EUV observations all mapped to the ionosphere pierce point using the Tsyganenko [1996] magnetic field line model. For this study we examine four events over North America: one just after the 13 October 2012 storm, one during the 20 April 2002 double storm, another during a large substorm on 26 January 2013, and one quiet event on 19 May 2001. We have found that in general, the equatorward edge of the mid-latitude trough is within several degrees in geographic latitude of the mapped model plasmapause boundary location, the plasmapause boundary identified with IMAGE EUV, and the location identified by the Radiation Belt Storm Probes spacecraft. When the mid-latitude trough is mapped to the inner magnetosphere, the observed boundary agrees with the plasmapause boundary models within 2 Earth Radii at nearly all local times in the nightside and the observed mid-latitude boundary is within the uncertainty of the observations at most local times in the nightside. Furthermore, during dynamic solar wind conditions of 20 April 2002, the mid-latitude trough observed in the vTEC maps propagates equatorward as the plasmapause boundary identified with IMAGE EUV moves earthward. Our results indicate that the mid-latitude trough observed within the vTEC maps represents an additional means of identifying the plasmapause boundary location, which could result in improved plasmapause boundary models. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.

Weygand, J.M.; Zhelavskaya, I.; Shprits, Y.;

Published by: Journal of Geophysical Research: Space Physics      Published on: 03/2021

YEAR: 2021     DOI: https://doi.org/10.1029/2020JA028213

mid-latitude trough; plasmapause boundary; vTECs; plasmapause models; Van Allen Probes

A Comparison of the Location of the Mid-latitude Trough and Plasmapause Boundary

Abstract We have compared the location of the mid-latitude trough observed in two dimensional vertical total electron content (vTEC) maps with four plasmapause boundary models, Radiation Belt Storm Probes observations, and IMAGE EUV observations all mapped to the ionosphere pierce point using the Tsyganenko [1996] magnetic field line model. For this study we examine four events over North America: one just after the 13 October 2012 storm, one during the 20 April 2002 double storm, another during a large substorm on 26 January 2013, and one quiet event on 19 May 2001. We have found that in general, the equatorward edge of the mid-latitude trough is within several degrees in geographic latitude of the mapped model plasmapause boundary location, the plasmapause boundary identified with IMAGE EUV, and the location identified by the Radiation Belt Storm Probes spacecraft. When the mid-latitude trough is mapped to the inner magnetosphere, the observed boundary agrees with the plasmapause boundary models within 2 Earth Radii at nearly all local times in the nightside and the observed mid-latitude boundary is within the uncertainty of the observations at most local times in the nightside. Furthermore, during dynamic solar wind conditions of 20 April 2002, the mid-latitude trough observed in the vTEC maps propagates equatorward as the plasmapause boundary identified with IMAGE EUV moves earthward. Our results indicate that the mid-latitude trough observed within the vTEC maps represents an additional means of identifying the plasmapause boundary location, which could result in improved plasmapause boundary models. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.

Weygand, J.M.; Zhelavskaya, I.; Shprits, Y.;

Published by: Journal of Geophysical Research: Space Physics      Published on: 03/2021

YEAR: 2021     DOI: https://doi.org/10.1029/2020JA028213

mid-latitude trough; plasmapause boundary; vTECs; plasmapause models; Van Allen Probes



  2      3      4      5      6      7