Bibliography
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Found 46 entries in the Bibliography.
Showing entries from 1 through 46
| 2021 |
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Direct evidence reveals transmitter signal propagation in the magnetosphere AbstractSignals from very-low-frequency transmitters on the ground are known to induce energetic electron precipitation from the Earth’s radiation belts. The effectiveness of this mechanism depends on the propagation characteristics of those signals in the magnetosphere, and in particular whether the signals are ducted or nonducted along channels of enhanced plasma density, analogous to optical fibres. Here we perform a statistical analysis of in-situ waveform data collected by the Van Allen Probes satellites that shows that nonducted propagation dominates over ducted propagation in both the occurrence and intensity of the waves. Ray tracing confirms that the latitudinal distribution of wavevectors corresponds to nonducted as opposed to ducted propagation. Our results show the dominant mode of propagation needed to quantify transmitter-induced precipitation and improve the forecast of electron radiation belt dynamics for the safe operation of satellites. Gu, Wenyao; Chen, Lunjin; Xia, Zhiyang; Horne, Richard; Published by: Geophysical Research Letters Published on: 07/2021 YEAR: 2021 DOI: https://doi.org/10.1029/2021GL093987 VLF transmitters; ducted propagation; nonducted propagation; Magnetosphere; Van Allen Probes |
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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 |
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Periodic Rising and Falling Tone ECH Waves from Van Allen Probes Observations AbstractElectron cyclotron harmonic (ECH) waves are known to precipitate plasma sheet electrons into the upper atmosphere and generate diffuse aurorae. In this study, we report quasi-periodic rising (3 events) and falling tone (22 events) ECH waves observed by Van Allen Probes, and evaluate their properties. These rising and falling tone ECH waves prefer to occur during quiet geomagnetic conditions over the dusk to midnight sector in relatively high-density (10–80 cm-3) regions. Their repetition periods increase with increasing L shell at L < 6, ranging from ∼60 to 110 s. The wave element duration varies from 10 s to 130 s peaking at ∼40 s and the chirping rate peaks at ∼50 (∼-50) Hz/s for rising (falling) tones. Our findings reveal intriguing features of the ECH wave properties, which provide new insights into their generation and potential effects on electron precipitation. Shen, Xiao-Chen; Li, Wen; Ma, Qianli; Published by: Geophysical Research Letters Published on: 02/2021 YEAR: 2021 DOI: https://doi.org/10.1029/2020GL091330 ECH wave; falling tone; rising tone; Magnetosphere; plasma wave; Van Allen Probes |
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Abstract We analyzed the magnetospheric global response to dynamic pressure pulses (DPPs) using the Heliophysics System Observatory (HSO) and ground magnetometers. During northward Interplanetary Magnetic Field (IMF) Bz conditions, the magnetosphere acts as a closed “cavity” and reacts to solar wind DPPs more simply than during southward IMF. In this study we use solar wind data collected by ACE and WIND together with magnetic field observations of Geotail, Cluster, THEMIS, MMS, Van Allen Probes, GOES missions, and ground magnetometer arrays to observe the magnetosphere (dayside, nightside, inner magnetosphere, magnetotail, magnetosheath, etc.) and ionosphere response simultaneously in several local time sectors and regions. A total of 37 events were selected during the period between February 2007 to December 2017. We examine the global response of each event and identify systematic behavior of the magnetosphere due to DPPs’ compression, such as MHD wave propagation, sudden impulses, and Ultra Low Frequency waves (ULF) in the Pc5 range. Our results confirm statistical studies with a more limited coverage that have been performed at different sectors and/or regions of the magnetosphere. We present observations of the different signatures generated in different regions that propagate through the magnetosphere. The signature of the tailward traveling DPP is observed to move at the same solar wind speed, and in superposition of other known magnetospheric perturbations. It is observed that the DPP also generates or increases the amplitude of Pc4-5 waves observed in the inner magnetosphere, while similar waves are observed on the ground. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved. Vidal-Luengo, S.; Moldwin, M.; Published by: Journal of Geophysical Research: Space Physics Published on: 01/2021 YEAR: 2021 DOI: https://doi.org/10.1029/2020JA028587 Multi-satellite; Heliophysics System Observatory; Dynamic Pressure Pulse; Heliophysics; Magnetosphere; Van Allen Probes |
| 2020 |
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TWINS Observations of the Dynamics of Ring Currents Ion Spectra on 17th March and 7th October 2015 Direct comparisons between RBSP (Van Allen Probes or Radiation Belt Storm Probes) and TWINS (Two Wide-angle Imaging Neutral-atom Spectrometers) for the main phase of two storms, 17th March and 7th October 2015, showed agreement between the in–situ ion measurements and the ion spectra from the deconvolved energetic neutral atom (ENA) measurements, except when O+ ions were significant. Spatial evolution of individual energy peaks in the ion spectra are studied using TWINS data. O+ ions are seen to result in intense peaks at 5–10 keV/amu in the TWINS ion spectra. These ion populations are confined to low L shells (L < 5) and localized in the pre midnight sector. When H+ ions are significant, the low energy peaks ( < 25 keV/amu) are found to be less intense than the high energy peaks ( > 25 keV/amu), located at L > 4 and localized within the premidnight sector. During times of rapidly varying AE indices, two spatially distinct peaks, between 3–5RE and 6–8RE, are observed for the ions with energies > 25 keV/amu. The outer peak appears for a few hours and fades while the inner peak is more stable. These structures are found to be consistent with particle injections observed in the RBSP data. When double peaked structures are swept off, low energy ions accumulate in the pre midnight to midnight sectors whereas high energy ions are located pre to post midnight sectors. Faster drift orbits of > 25 keV/amu ions may cause this kind of distribution.This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved. Shekhar, S.; Perez, J.; Ferradas, C.; Published by: Journal of Geophysical Research: Space Physics Published on: 12/2020 YEAR: 2020 DOI: https://doi.org/10.1029/2020JA028156 Ring Currents; Magnetosphere; energy dependent drift; ion nose; Substorm Injections; Ion Spectra; Van Allen Probes |
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We present new and previously unreported in situ observations of Hertz frequency multiharmonic mode field line resonances detected by the Electric Field and Waves instrument on-board the NASA Van Allen probes during low-L perigee passes. Spectral analysis of the spin-plane electric field data reveals the waves in numerous perigee passes, in sequential passes of probes A and B, and with harmonic frequency structures from ∼0.5 to 3.5 Hz which vary with L-shell, altitude, and from day-to-day. Comparing the observations to wave models using plasma mass density values along the field line given by empirical power laws and from the International Reference Ionosphere model, we conclude that the waves are standing Alfvén field line resonances and that only odd-mode harmonics are excited. The model eigenfrequencies are strongly controlled by the density close to the apex of the field line, suggesting a new diagnostic for equatorial ionospheric density dynamics. Lena, F.; Ozeke, L.; Wygant, J.; Tian, S.; Breneman, A.; Mann, I.; Published by: Geophysical Research Letters Published on: 12/2020 YEAR: 2020 DOI: https://doi.org/10.1029/2020GL090632 Field line resonance; Ionosphere; magneto-seismology; Magnetosphere; plasmasphere; standing Alfvén waves; Van Allen Probes |
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Relation Between Shock-Related Impulse and Subsequent ULF Wave in the Earth s Magnetosphere The generation of Pc4-5 ultralow frequency (ULF) waves after interplanetary shock-induced electric field impulses in the Earth s magnetosphere is studied using Van Allen Probes measurements by investigating the relationship between the first impulses and subsequent resonant ULF waves. In the dayside, the relevant time scales of the first impulse is correlated better with local Alfvén speed than with local eigenfrequency, implying that the temporal scale of the first impulse is more likely related to fast-mode wave propagation rather than local field line resonance. There are only 20 out of 51 events with narrow-band poloidal ULF waves induced after the first impulse, showing a higher chance for ULF wave generation at the locations where the impulse equivalent frequency scale matches the local eigenfrequency. It is suggested that the shock-related ULF wave can be excited in the magnetosphere on condition that shock-induced impulse has large enough amplitude with its frequency matching the local eigenfrequency. Zhang, Dianjun; Liu, Wenlong; Li, Xinlin; Sarris, Theodore; Wang, Yongfu; Xiao, Chao; Zhang, Zhao; Wygant, John; Published by: Geophysical Research Letters Published on: 11/2020 YEAR: 2020 DOI: https://doi.org/10.1029/2020GL090027 ULF wave; interplanetary shock; Magnetosphere; Field line resonance; electric field; wave excitation; Van Allen Probes |
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Simulations of Electron Flux Oscillations as Observed by MagEIS in Response to Broadband ULF Waves Coherent electron flux oscillations of hundreds of keV are often observed by the Van Allen Probes in the magnetosphere during quiet times in association with ultralow frequency (ULF) waves. They are observed in the form of periodic flux fluctuations, with a drift frequency that is energy dependent, but are not associated with drift echoes following storm- or substorm-related energetic particle injections. Instead, they are associated with the resonant interaction of electrons with ULF waves and are an indication of ongoing electron radial diffusion. To investigate details of such flux oscillations, particle-tracing simulations are conducted under the effect of realistic, broadband ULF electric and consistent magnetic fluctuations. Virtual detectors are simulated along spacecraft orbits and the results are compared to measurements. Through a parametric study, it is found that the width of electron energy channels is a critical parameter affecting the observed amplitude of flux oscillations, with narrower energy channel widths enabling the observation of higher-amplitude flux oscillations; this potentially explains why such features were not observed regularly before the Van Allen Probes era, as previous spacecraft generally had lower energy resolution, which only enabled the observation of large-amplitude drift echoes following a storm or substorm. Results are confirmed using the Magnetic Electron Ion Spectrometer (MagEIS) ultrahigh energy resolution data. Energy width effects are quantified through a parametric simulation study that matches flux oscillation observations during a period that is characterized by extremely quiet conditions, where the Van Allen Probes observed flux oscillations over multiple days. Sarris, Theodore; Li, Xinlin; Temerin, Michael; Zhao, Hong; Khoo, Leng; Turner, Drew; Liu, Wenlong; Claudepierre, Seth; Published by: Journal of Geophysical Research: Space Physics Published on: 05/2020 YEAR: 2020 DOI: https://doi.org/10.1029/2020JA027798 electron flux oscillations; ULF waves; Magnetosphere; Radiation belts; radial diffusion; particle tracing simulations; Van Allen Probes |
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Abstract A comprehensive numerical raytracing study of whistler mode wave power with the inclusion of finite background electron and ion temperature is performed in order to investigate wave power distribution in relation to the plasmapause. Both Landau damping and linear growth of whistler mode waves are taken into account using a bi-Maxwellian hot electron distribution as well as an isotropic hot electron distribution. Isotropic and bi-Maxwellian distributions yield similar results of statistical spatial wave power for frequencies below 500 Hz. The effect of finite background temperature of ∼1 eV for electrons and ions are secondary in terms of the spatial distribution of whistler mode waves relative to the plasmapause. Three primary equatorial source locations at L=2, Lpp and L=5, corresponding to within the plasmasphere, at the plasmapause and outside the plasmapause, are investigated for MLT values of 00, 06, 12, and 18. At each location, waves are launched with a range of initial wave normal angles (−70° to 20°). The simulated wave power distributions are compared with observations from the EMFISIS instrument on Van Allen Probe A. Correspondence between the simulated distribution and the observations requires a weighting of the source regions. Results suggest that the majority of whistler mode power in the plasmasphere is sourced from within the plasmasphere itself and near the plasmapause. Only at noon (MLT 12) is wave power sourced primarily from at and outside the plasmapause. Maxworth, A.; Gołkowski, M.; Malaspina, D.; Jaynes, A.; Published by: Journal of Geophysical Research: Space Physics Published on: 04/2020 YEAR: 2020 DOI: 10.1029/2019JA027154 hiss; plasmasphere; Warm Plasma; Raytracing; Magnetosphere; Van Allen Probes |
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Bayesian Inference of Quasi-Linear Radial Diffusion Parameters using Van Allen Probes Abstract The Van Allen radiation belts in the magnetosphere have been extensively studied using models based on radial diffusion theory, which is derived from a quasi-linear approach with prescribed inner and outer boundary conditions. The 1D diffusion model requires the knowledge of a diffusion coefficient and an electron loss timescale, which is typically parameterized in terms of various quantities such as the spatial (L) coordinate or a geomagnetic index (e.g., Kp). These terms are typically empirically derived, not directly measurable, and hence are not known precisely, due to the inherent nonlinearity of the process and the variable boundary conditions. In this work, we demonstrate a probabilistic approach by inferring the values of the diffusion and loss term parameters, along with their uncertainty, in a Bayesian framework, where identification is obtained using the Van Allen Probe measurements. Our results show that the probabilistic approach statistically improves the performance of the model, compared to the empirical parameterization employed in the literature. Sarma, Rakesh; Chandorkar, Mandar; Zhelavskaya, Irina; Shprits, Yuri; Drozdov, Alexander; Camporeale, Enrico; Published by: Journal of Geophysical Research: Space Physics Published on: 04/2020 YEAR: 2020 DOI: 10.1029/2019JA027618 radial diffusion; Magnetosphere; Bayesian inference; Van Allen radiation belt; Van Allen Probes |
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Abstract We study quasiperiodic very low frequency (VLF) emissions observed simultaneously by Van Allen Probes spacecraft and Kannuslehto and Lovozero ground-based stations on 25 December 2015. Both Van Allen Probes A and B detected quasiperiodic emissions, probably originated from a common source, and observed on the ground. In order to locate possible regions of wave generation, we analyze wave-normal angles with respect to the geomagnetic field, Poynting flux direction, and cyclotron instability growth rate calculated by using the measured phase space density of energetic electrons. We demonstrate that even parallel wave propagation and proper (downward) Poynting flux direction are not sufficient for claiming observations to be in the source region. Agreement between the growth rate and emission bands was obtained for a restricted part of Van Allen Probe A trajectory corresponding to localized enhancement of plasma density with scale of 700 km. We employ spacecraft density data to build a model plasma profile and to calculate ray trajectories from the point of wave detection in space to the ionosphere and examine the possibility of their propagation toward the ground. For the considered event, the wave could propagate toward the ground in the geomagnetic flux tube with enhanced plasma density, which ensured ducted propagation. The region of wave exit was confirmed by the analysis of wave propagation direction at the ground detection point. Demekhov, A.; Titova, E.; Maninnen, J.; Pasmanik, D.; Lubchich, A.; Santolik, O.; Larchenko, A.; Nikitenko, A.; Turunen, T.; Published by: Journal of Geophysical Research: Space Physics Published on: 04/2020 YEAR: 2020 DOI: 10.1029/2020JA027776 quasiperiodic VLF emissions; Cyclotron instability; wave propagation; Magnetosphere; whistler mode waves; Van Allen Probes |
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A comprehensive numerical raytracing study of whistler mode wave power with the inclusion of finite background electron and ion temperature is performed in order to investigate wave power distribution in relation to the plasmapause. Both Landau damping and linear growth of whistler mode waves are taken into account using a bi-Maxwellian hot electron distribution as well as an isotropic hot electron distribution. Isotropic and bi-Maxwellian distributions yield similar results of statistical spatial wave power for frequencies below 500 Hz. The effect of finite background temperature of ∼1 eV for electrons and ions are secondary in terms of the spatial distribution of whistler mode waves relative to the plasmapause. Three primary equatorial source locations at L=2, Lpp and L=5, corresponding to within the plasmasphere, at the plasmapause and outside the plasmapause, are investigated for MLT values of 00, 06, 12, and 18. At each location, waves are launched with a range of initial wave normal angles (−70° to 20°). The simulated wave power distributions are compared with observations from the EMFISIS instrument on Van Allen Probe A. Correspondence between the simulated distribution and the observations requires a weighting of the source regions. Results suggest that the majority of whistler mode power in the plasmasphere is sourced from within the plasmasphere itself and near the plasmapause. Only at noon (MLT 12) is wave power sourced primarily from at and outside the plasmapause. Maxworth, A.; Gołkowski, M.; Malaspina, D.; Jaynes, A.; Published by: Journal of Geophysical Research: Space Physics Published on: 04/2020 YEAR: 2020 DOI: https://doi.org/10.1029/2019JA027154 hiss; plasmasphere; Warm Plasma; Raytracing; Magnetosphere; Van Allen Probes |
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Bayesian Inference of Quasi-Linear Radial Diffusion Parameters using Van Allen Probes The Van Allen radiation belts in the magnetosphere have been extensively studied using models based on radial diffusion theory, which is derived from a quasi-linear approach with prescribed inner and outer boundary conditions. The 1D diffusion model requires the knowledge of a diffusion coefficient and an electron loss timescale, which is typically parameterized in terms of various quantities such as the spatial (L) coordinate or a geomagnetic index (e.g., Kp). These terms are typically empirically derived, not directly measurable, and hence are not known precisely, due to the inherent nonlinearity of the process and the variable boundary conditions. In this work, we demonstrate a probabilistic approach by inferring the values of the diffusion and loss term parameters, along with their uncertainty, in a Bayesian framework, where identification is obtained using the Van Allen Probe measurements. Our results show that the probabilistic approach statistically improves the performance of the model, compared to the empirical parameterization employed in the literature. Sarma, Rakesh; Chandorkar, Mandar; Zhelavskaya, Irina; Shprits, Yuri; Drozdov, Alexander; Camporeale, Enrico; Published by: Journal of Geophysical Research: Space Physics Published on: 04/2020 YEAR: 2020 DOI: https://doi.org/10.1029/2019JA027618 radial diffusion; Magnetosphere; Bayesian inference; Van Allen radiation belt; Van Allen Probes |
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We study quasiperiodic very low frequency (VLF) emissions observed simultaneously by Van Allen Probes spacecraft and Kannuslehto and Lovozero ground-based stations on 25 December 2015. Both Van Allen Probes A and B detected quasiperiodic emissions, probably originated from a common source, and observed on the ground. In order to locate possible regions of wave generation, we analyze wave-normal angles with respect to the geomagnetic field, Poynting flux direction, and cyclotron instability growth rate calculated by using the measured phase space density of energetic electrons. We demonstrate that even parallel wave propagation and proper (downward) Poynting flux direction are not sufficient for claiming observations to be in the source region. Agreement between the growth rate and emission bands was obtained for a restricted part of Van Allen Probe A trajectory corresponding to localized enhancement of plasma density with scale of 700 km. We employ spacecraft density data to build a model plasma profile and to calculate ray trajectories from the point of wave detection in space to the ionosphere and examine the possibility of their propagation toward the ground. For the considered event, the wave could propagate toward the ground in the geomagnetic flux tube with enhanced plasma density, which ensured ducted propagation. The region of wave exit was confirmed by the analysis of wave propagation direction at the ground detection point. Demekhov, A.; Titova, E.; Maninnen, J.; Pasmanik, D.; Lubchich, A.; Santolik, O.; Larchenko, A.; Nikitenko, A.; Turunen, T.; Published by: Journal of Geophysical Research: Space Physics Published on: 04/2020 YEAR: 2020 DOI: https://doi.org/10.1029/2020JA027776 quasiperiodic VLF emissions; Cyclotron instability; wave propagation; Magnetosphere; whistler mode waves; Van Allen Probes |
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The Role of the Dynamic Plasmapause in Outer Radiation Belt Electron Flux Enhancement Abstract The plasmasphere is a highly dynamic toroidal region of cold, dense plasma around Earth. Plasma waves exist both inside and outside this region and can contribute to the loss and acceleration of high energy outer radiation belt electrons. Early observational studies found an apparent correlation on long time scales between the observed inner edge of the outer radiation belt and the modeled innermost plasmapause location. More recent work using high-resolution Van Allen Probes data has found a more complex relationship. For this study, we determine the standoff distance of the location of maximum electron flux of the outer belt MeV electrons from the plasmapause following rapid enhancement events. We find that the location of the outer radiation belt based on maximum electron flux is consistently outside the plasmapause, with a peak radial standoff distance of ∆L ~ 1. We discuss the implications this result has for acceleration mechanisms. Bruff, M.; Jaynes, A.; Zhao, H.; Goldstein, J.; Malaspina, D.; Baker, D.; Kanekal, S.; Spence, H.; Reeves, G.; Published by: Geophysical Research Letters Published on: 03/2020 YEAR: 2020 DOI: 10.1029/2020GL086991 Plasmapause; outer radiation belt; Magnetosphere; chorus waves; Van Allen Probes |
| 2019 |
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On 23 February 2014, Van Allen Probes sensors observed quite strong electromagnetic ion cyclotron (EMIC) waves in the outer dayside magnetosphere. The maximum amplitude was more than 14 nT, comparable to 7\% of the magnitude of the ambient magnetic field. The EMIC waves consisted of a series of coherent rising tone emissions. Rising tones are excited sporadically by energetic protons. At the same time, the probes detected drastic fluctuations in fluxes of MeV electrons. It was found that the electron fluxes decreased by more than 30\% during the 1 min following the observation of each EMIC rising tone emissions. Furthermore, it is concluded that the flux reduction is a nonadiabatic (irreversible) process since holes in the particle flux levels appear as drift echoes with energy dispersion. We examine the process of electron pitch angle scattering by nonlinear wave trapping due to anomalous cyclotron resonance with EMIC rising tone emissions. The energy range of precipitated electrons agrees with the presumed energy for the threshold amplitude for nonlinear wave trapping. This is the first report of rapid precipitation (<1 min) of relativistic electrons by EMIC rising tone emissions and their drift echoes in time observed by spacecraft. Nakamura, S.; Omura, Y.; Kletzing, C.; Baker, D.; Published by: Journal of Geophysical Research: Space Physics Published on: May-08-2020 YEAR: 2019 DOI: 10.1029/2019JA026772 EMIC waves; Magnetosphere; microburst; nonlinear; Radiation belt; Van Allen Probes; Wave-particle interaction |
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Variability of Quasilinear Diffusion Coefficients for Plasmaspheric Hiss In the outer radiation belt, the acceleration and loss of high-energy electrons is largely controlled by wave-particle interactions. Quasilinear diffusion coefficients are an efficient way to capture the small-scale physics of wave-particle interactions due to magnetospheric wave modes such as plasmaspheric hiss. The strength of quasilinear diffusion coefficients as a function of energy and pitch angle depends on both wave parameters and plasma parameters such as ambient magnetic field strength, plasma number density, and composition. For plasmaspheric hiss in the magnetosphere, observations indicate large variations in the wave intensity and wave normal angle, but less is known about the simultaneous variability of the magnetic field and number density. We use in situ measurements from the Van Allen Probe mission to demonstrate the variability of selected factors that control the size and shape of pitch angle diffusion coefficients: wave intensity, magnetic field strength, and electron number density. We then compare with the variability of diffusion coefficients calculated individually from colocated and simultaneous groups of measurements. We show that the distribution of the plasmaspheric hiss diffusion coefficients is highly non-Gaussian with large variance and that the distributions themselves vary strongly across the three phase space bins studied. In most bins studied, the plasmaspheric hiss diffusion coefficients tend to increase with geomagnetic activity, but our results indicate that new approaches that include natural variability may yield improved parameterizations. We suggest methods like stochastic parameterization of wave-particle interactions could use variability information to improve modeling of the outer radiation belt. Watt, C.; Allison, H.; Meredith, N.; Thompson, R.; Bentley, S.; Rae, I.; Glauert, S.; Horne, R.; Published by: Journal of Geophysical Research: Space Physics Published on: 10/2019 YEAR: 2019 DOI: 10.1029/2018JA026401 empirical; Magnetosphere; parameterization; stochastic; Van Allen Probes; wave-particle interactions |
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Empirical Modeling of the Geomagnetosphere for SIR and CME-Driven Magnetic Storms During geomagnetic disturbances, the solar wind arrives in the form of characteristic sequences lasting from tens of hours to days. The most important magnetic storm drivers are the coronal mass ejections (CMEs) and the slow-fast stream interaction regions (SIRs). Previous data-based magnetic field models did not distinguish between these types of the solar wind driving. In the present work we retained the basic structure of the Tsyganenko and Andreeva (2015) model but fitted it to data samples corresponding to (1) SIR-driven storms, (2) CME-driven storms preceded with a shock ahead of the CME, and (3) CME-driven storms without such shocks. The storm time dynamics of the model current systems has been represented using the parametrization method developed by Tsyganenko and Sitnov (2005), based on dynamical variables Wi, calculated from concurrent solar wind characteristics and their previous history. The database included observations of THEMIS, Polar, Cluster, Geotail, and Van Allen Probes missions during 155 storms in 1997\textendash2016. The model current systems drastically differ from each other with respect to decay rate and total current magnitudes. During SIR-induced storms, all current systems saturate, while during CME-induced disturbances, the saturation occurs only for the symmetric ring current and the tail current. The partial ring current parameters are drastically different between SIR- and CME-induced storm sets. In the case of SIR-driven storms, the total partial ring current is comparable with symmetric ring current, whereas for all CME-induced events it is nearly twice higher. The results are compared with GOES 15 magnetometer observations. Published by: Journal of Geophysical Research: Space Physics Published on: 07/2019 YEAR: 2019 DOI: 10.1029/2018JA026008 Magnetic Storms; Magnetosphere; Modeling; Solar wind; spacecraft data; Van Allen Probes |
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We present a statistical analysis with 100\% duty cycle and non-time-averaged amplitudes of the prevalence and distribution of high-amplitude >50-pT whistler mode waves in the outer radiation belt using 5 years of Van Allen Probes data. Whistler mode waves with high magnetic field amplitudes are most common above L=4.5 and between magnetic local time of 0\textendash14 where they are present approximately 1\textendash6\% of the time. During high geomagnetic activity, high-amplitude whistler mode wave occurrence rises above 25\% in some regions. The dayside population are more common during quiet or moderate geomagnetic activity and occur primarily >5\textdegree from the magnetic equator, while the night-to-dawn population are enhanced during active times and are primarily within 5\textdegree of the magnetic equator. These results are different from the distribution of electric field peaks discussed in our previous paper covering the same time period and spatial range. Our previous study found large-amplitude electric field peaks were common down to L=3.5 and were largely absent from afternoon and near noon. The different distribution of large electric and magnetic field amplitudes implies that the low-L component of whistler mode waves observed previously are primarily highly oblique, while the dayside and high-L populations are primarily field aligned. These results have important implications for modeling radiation belt particle interactions with chorus, as large-amplitude waves interact nonlinearly with electrons, resulting in rapid energization, de-energization, or pitch angle scattering. This also may provide clues regarding the mechanisms which can cause significant whistler mode wave growth up to more than 100 times the average wave amplitude. Tyler, E.; Breneman, A.; Cattell, C.; Wygant, J.; Thaller, S.; Malaspina, D.; Published by: Journal of Geophysical Research: Space Physics Published on: 07/2019 YEAR: 2019 DOI: 10.1029/2019JA026913 Magnetosphere; magnetospheric chorus; Radiation belts; Van Allen Probes; whistler wave |
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Chorus waves are known to accelerate or scatter energetic electrons via quasi-linear or nonlinear wave-particle interactions in the Earth\textquoterights magnetosphere. In this letter, by taking advantage of simultaneous observations of chorus waveforms from at least a pair of probes among Van Allen Probes and/or Time History of Events and Macroscale Interactions during Substorms (THEMIS) missions, we statistically calculate the transverse size of lower band chorus wave elements. The average size of lower band chorus wave element is found to be ~315\textpm32 km over L shells of ~5\textendash6. Furthermore, our results suggest that the scale size of lower band chorus tends to be (1) larger at higher L shells; (2) larger at higher magnetic latitudes, especially on the dayside; and (3) larger in the azimuthal direction than in the radial direction. Our findings are crucial to quantify wave-particle interaction process, particularly the nonlinear interactions between chorus and energetic electrons. Shen, Xiao-Chen; Li, Wen; Ma, Qianli; Agapitov, Oleksiy; Nishimura, Yukitoshi; Published by: Geophysical Research Letters Published on: 05/2019 YEAR: 2019 DOI: 10.1029/2019GL083118 |
| 2018 |
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Eigenmodes of the transverse Alfv\ enic resonator at the plasmapause: a Van Allen Probes case study A Pc4 ULF wave was detected at spacecraft B of the Van Allen Probes at the plasmapause. A distinctive feature of this wave is the strong periodical modulation of the wave. It is assumed that this modulation is a beating of oscillations close in frequency: at least two harmonics with frequencies of 15.3 and 13.6 MHz are found. It is shown that these harmonics can be the eigenmodes of the transverse resonator at the local maximum of the Alfv\ en velocity. In addition, the observed wave was in a drift resonance with energetic 80 keV protons and could be generated by an unstable \textquotedblleftbump on tail\textquotedblright distribution of protons simultaneously observed with the wave. The estimate of the azimuthal wave number m made from the drift resonance condition gives a value of about -100, i.e., it is a westward propagating azimuthally small-scale wave. Mager, Pavel; Mikhailova, Olga; Mager, Olga; Klimushkin, Dmitri; Published by: Geophysical Research Letters Published on: 09/2018 YEAR: 2018 DOI: 10.1029/2018GL079596 Magnetosphere; Plasmapause; poloidal Alfven waves; transverse resonator; ULF waves; Van Allen Probes; Wave-particle interaction |
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Energisation of the ring current by substorms The substorm process releases large amounts of energy into the magnetospheric system, although where the energy is transferred to and how it is partitioned remains an open question. In this study, we address whether the substorm process contributes a significant amount of energy to the ring current. The ring current is a highly variable region, and understanding the energisation processes provides valuable insight into how substorm - ring current coupling may contribute to the generation of storm conditions and provide a source of energy for wave driving. In order to quantify the energy input into the ring current during the substorm process, we analyse RBSPICE and HOPE ion flux measurements for H+, O+, and He+. The energy content of the ring current is estimated and binned spatially for L and MLT. The results are combined with an independently derived substorm event list to perform a statistical analysis of variations in the ring current energy content with substorm phase. We show that the ring current energy is significantly higher in the expansion phase compared to the growth phase, with the energy enhancement persisting into the substorm recovery phase. The characteristics of the energy enhancement suggest the injection of energised ions from the tail plasma sheet following substorm onset. The local time variations indicate a loss of energetic H+ ions in the afternoon sector, likely due to wave-particle interactions. Overall, we find that the average energy input into the ring current is \~9\% of the previously reported energy released during substorms. Sandhu, J.; Rae, I.; Freeman, M.; Forsyth, C.; Gkioulidou, M.; Reeves, G.; Spence, H.; Jackman, C.; Lam, M.; Published by: Journal of Geophysical Research: Space Physics Published on: 09/2018 YEAR: 2018 DOI: 10.1029/2018JA025766 BSPICE; HOPE; Magnetosphere; ring current; substorms; Van Allen Probes |
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Inward radial diffusion driven by ULF waves has long been known to be capable of accelerating radiation belt electrons to very high energies within the heart of the belts, but more recent work has shown that radial diffusion values can be highly event-specific and mean values or empirical models may not capture the full significance of radial diffusion to acceleration events. Here we present an event of fast inward radial diffusion, occurring during a period following the geomagnetic storm of 17 March 2015. Ultra-relativistic electrons up to \~8 MeV are accelerated in the absence of intense higher-frequency plasma waves, indicating an acceleration event in the core of the outer belt driven primarily or entirely by ULF wave-driven diffusion. We examine this fast diffusion rate along with derived radial diffusion coefficients using particle and fields instruments on the Van Allen Probes spacecraft mission. Jaynes, A.; Ali, A.; Elkington, S.; Malaspina, D.; Baker, D.; Li, X.; Kanekal, S.; Henderson, M.; Kletzing, C.; Wygant, J.; Published by: Geophysical Research Letters Published on: 09/2018 YEAR: 2018 DOI: 10.1029/2018GL079786 Magnetosphere; radial diffusion; Radiation belts; ULF waves; Van Allen Probes |
| 2017 |
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Conjugate Ground-Spacecraft Observations of VLF Chorus Elements We present results of simultaneous observations of VLF chorus elements at the ground-based station Kannuslehto in Northern Finland and on board Van Allen Probe A. Visual inspection and correlation analysis of the data reveal one-to-one correspondence of several (at least 12) chorus elements following each other in a sequence. Poynting flux calculated from electromagnetic fields measured by the Electric and Magnetic Field Instrument Suite and Integrated Science instrument on board Van Allen Probe A shows that the waves propagate at small angles to the geomagnetic field and oppositely to its direction, that is, from northern to southern geographic hemisphere. The spacecraft was located at L≃4.1 at a geomagnetic latitude of -12.4o close to the plasmapause and inside a localized density inhomogeneity with about 30\% density increase and a transverse size of about 600 km. The time delay between the waves detected on the ground and on the spacecraft is about 1.3 s, with ground-based detection leading spacecraft detection. The measured time delay is consistent with the wave travel time of quasi-parallel whistler-mode waves for a realistic profile of the plasma density distribution along the field line. The results suggest that chorus discrete elements can preserve their spectral shape during a hop from the generation region to the ground followed by reflection from the ionosphere and return to the near-equatorial region. Demekhov, A.; Manninen, J.; ik, O.; Titova, E.; Published by: Geophysical Research Letters Published on: 12/2017 YEAR: 2017 DOI: 10.1002/2017GL076139 ground-spacecraft observations; Magnetosphere; Van Allen Probes; VLF chorus |
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Relativistic Electron Precipitation (REP) in the atmosphere can contribute significantly to electron loss from the outer radiation belts. In order to estimate the contribution to this loss, it is important to estimate the spatial extent of the precipitation region. We observed REP with the zenith pointing (0o) Medium Energy Proton Electron Detector (MEPED) on board Polar Orbiting Environmental Satellites (POES), for 15 years (2000-2014) and used both single and multi satellite measurements to estimate an average extent of the region of precipitation in L shell and Magnetic Local Time (MLT). In the duration of 15 years (2000-2014), 31035 REP events were found in this study. Events were found to split into two classes; one class of events coincided with proton precipitation in the P1 channel (30-80 keV), were located in the dusk and early morning sector, and were more localized in L shell (dL<0.5), whereas the other class of events did not coincide with proton precipitation, were located mostly in the midnight sector and were wider in L shell (dL \~ 1-2.5). Both classes were highly localized in MLT (dMLT <= 3 hrs), occuring mostly during the declining phase of the solar cycle and geomagnetically active times. The events located in the midnight sector for both classes were found to be associated with tail magnetic field stretching which could be due to the fact that they tend to occur mostly during geomagnetically active times, or could imply that precipitation is caused by current sheet scattering. Shekhar, Sapna; Millan, Robyn; Smith, David; Published by: Journal of Geophysical Research: Space Physics Published on: 10/2017 YEAR: 2017 DOI: 10.1002/2017JA024716 Magnetosphere; precipitation; Radiation belts; relativistic electrons; spatial scale of REP; Van Allen Probes; wave particle scattering |
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We have studied the spatial location relative to the plasmapause (PP) of the most intense electromagnetic ion cyclotron (EMIC) waves observed on Van Allen Probes A and B during their first full precession in local time. Most of these waves occurred over an L range of from -1 to +2 RE relative to the PP. Very few events occurred only within 0.1 RE of the PP, and events with a width in L of < 0.2 REoccurred both inside and outside the PP. Wave occurrence was always associated with high densities of ring current ions; plasma density gradients or enhancements were associated with some events but were not dominant factors in determining the sites of wave generation. Storm main and recovery phase events in the dusk sector were often inside the PP, and dayside events during quiet times and compressions of the magnetosphere were more evenly distributed both inside and outside the PP. Superposed epoch analyses of the dependence of wave onset on solar wind dynamic pressure (Psw), the SME (SuperMAG auroral electrojet) index, and the SYM/H index showed that substorm injections and solar wind compressions were temporally closely associated with EMIC wave onset, but to an extent that varied with frequency band, MLT, and storm phase, and location relative to the PP. The fact that increases in SME and Psw were less strongly correlated with events at the PP than with other events might suggest that the occurrence of those events was affected by the density gradient. Tetrick, S.; Engebretson, M.; Posch, J.; Olson, C.; Smith, C.; Denton, R.; Thaller, S.; Wygant, J.; Reeves, G.; MacDonald, E.; Fennell, J.; Published by: Journal of Geophysical Research: Space Physics Published on: 03/2017 YEAR: 2017 DOI: 10.1002/2016JA023392 |
| 2016 |
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Local time variations of high-energy plasmaspheric ion pitch angle distributions Recent observations from the Van Allen Probes Helium Oxygen Proton Electron (HOPE) instrument revealed a persistent depletion in the 1\textendash10 eV ion population in the postmidnight sector during quiet times in the 2 < L < 3 region. This study explores the source of this ion depletion by developing an algorithm to classify 26 months of pitch angle distributions measured by the HOPE instrument. We correct the HOPE low energy fluxes for spacecraft potential using measurements from the Electric Field and Waves (EFW) instrument. A high percentage of low count pitch angle distributions is found in the postmidnight sector coupled with a low percentage of ion distributions peaked perpendicular to the field line. A peak in loss cone distributions in the dusk sector is also observed. These results characterize the nature of the dearth of the near 90\textdegree pitch angle 1\textendash10 eV ion population in the near-Earth postmidnight sector. This study also shows, for the first time, low-energy HOPE differential number fluxes corrected for spacecraft potential and 1\textendash10 eV H+ fluxes at different levels of geomagnetic activity. Sarno-Smith, Lois; Liemohn, Michael; Skoug, Ruth; Larsen, Brian; Moldwin, Mark; Katus, Roxanne; Wygant, John; Published by: Journal of Geophysical Research: Space Physics Published on: 07/2016 YEAR: 2016 DOI: 10.1002/2015JA022301 algorithm; Magnetosphere; pitch angles; plasmasphere; spacecraft potential corrections; Van Allen Probes |
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Compressional ULF wave modulation of energetic particles in the inner magnetosphere We present Van Allen Probes observations of modulations in the flux of very energetic electrons up to a few MeV and protons between 1200 - 1400 UT on February 19th, 2014. During this event the spacecraft were in the dayside magnetosphere at L*≈5.5. The modulations extended across a wide range of particle energies, from 79.80 keV to 2.85 MeV for electrons and from 82.85 keV to 636.18 keV for protons. The fluxes of π/2 pitch angle particles were observed to attain maximum values simultaneously with the ULF compressional magnetic field component reaching a minimum. We use peak-to-valley ratios to quantify the strength of the modulation effect, finding that the modulation is larger at higher energies than at lower energies. It is shown that the compressional wave modulation of the particle distribution is due to the mirror effect, which can trap relativistic electrons efficiently for energies up to 2.85 MeV, and trap protons up to ≈600 keV. Larger peak-to-valley ratios at higher energies also attributed to the mirror effect. Finally, we suggest that protons with energies higher than 636.18 keV can not be trapped by the compressional ULF wave efficiently due to the finite Larmor radius effect. Liu, H.; Zong, Q.-G.; Zhou, X.-Z.; Fu, S; Rankin, R.; Wang, L.-H.; Yuan, C.; Wang, Y.; Baker, D.; Blake, J.; Kletzing, C.; Published by: Journal of Geophysical Research: Space Physics Published on: 05/2016 YEAR: 2016 DOI: 10.1002/2016JA022706 Compressional ULF wave; energetic particles; Magnetosphere; Mirror effect; Modulation; relativistic electrons; Van Allen Probes |
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Electron butterfly distribution modulation by magnetosonic waves The butterfly pitch angle distribution is observed as a dip in an otherwise normal distribution of electrons centered about αeq=90\textdegree. During storm times, the formation of the butterfly distribution on the nightside magnetosphere has been attributed to L shell splitting combined with magnetopause shadowing and strong positive radial flux gradients. It has been shown that this distribution can be caused by combined chorus and magnetosonic wave scattering where the two waves work together but at different local times. Presented in our study is an event on 21 August 2013, using Van Allen Probe measurements, where a butterfly distribution formation is modulated by local magnetosonic coherent magnetosonic waves intensity. Transition from normal to butterfly distributions coincides with rising magnetosonic wave intensity while an opposite transition occurs when wave intensity diminishes. We propose that bounce resonance with waves is the underlying process responsible for such rapid modulation, which is confirmed by our test particle simulation. Maldonado, Armando; Chen, Lunjin; Claudepierre, Seth; Bortnik, Jacob; Thorne, Richard; Spence, Harlan; Published by: Geophysical Research Letters Published on: 04/2016 YEAR: 2016 DOI: 10.1002/2016GL068161 butterfly; electron; magnetosonic; Magnetosphere; Van Allen Probes; wave particle interaction |
| 2015 |
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The Van Allen Probes mission provides an unprecedented opportunity to make detailed measurements of electrons and protons in the inner magnetosphere during the weak solar maximum period of cycle 24. The MagEIS suite of sensors measures energy spectra and fluxes of charged particles in the space environment. The calculations show that these fluxes result in electron deposition rates high enough to cause internal charging. We use omnidirectional fluxes of electrons and protons to calculate the dose under varying materials and thicknesses of shielding. We show examples of charge deposition rates during the times of nominal and high levels of penetrating fluxes in the inner magnetosphere covering the period from the beginning of 2013 through mid-2014. These charge deposition rates are related to charging levels quite possibly encountered by shielded dielectrics with different resistivities. Using a simple model, we find temporal profiles for different materials showing the long-term charge deposition rate and estimated charge density levels reaching high levels. These levels are an indicator of internal charging rates that satellites might possibly experience in the inner magnetosphere. The results are compared with charge densities that can induce internal electrostatic discharge. Skov, Tamitha; Fennell, Joseph; Roeder, James; Blake, Bernard; Claudepierre, Seth; Published by: IEEE Transactions on Plasma Science Published on: 09/2015 YEAR: 2015 DOI: 10.1109/TPS.2015.2468214 artificial satellites; dielectric materials; electrons; Energy measurement; MAGEis; Magnetosphere; particle detectors; protons; Van Allen Probes |
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A statistical study of EMIC waves observed by Cluster: 1. Wave properties Electromagnetic ion cyclotron (EMIC) waves are an important mechanism for particle energization and losses inside the magnetosphere. In order to better understand the effects of these waves on particle dynamics, detailed information about the occurrence rate, wave power, ellipticity, normal angle, energy propagation angle distributions, as well as local plasma parameters are required. Previous statistical studies have used in situ observations to investigate the distribution of these parameters in the MLT-L frame within a limited MLAT range. In this study, we present a statistical analysis of EMIC wave properties using ten years (2001\textendash2010) of data from Cluster, totaling 25,431 minutes of wave activity. Due to the polar orbit of Cluster, we are able to investigate EMIC waves at all MLATs and MLTs. This allows us to further investigate the MLAT dependence of various wave properties inside different MLT sectors and further explore the effects of Shabansky orbits on EMIC wave generation and propagation. The statistical analysis is presented in two papers. This paper focuses on the wave occurrence distribution as well as the distribution of wave properties. The companion paper focuses on local plasma parameters during wave observations as well as wave generation proxies. Allen, R.; Zhang, J.; Kistler, L.; Spence, H.; Lin, R.; Klecker, B.; Dunlop, M.; e, Andr\; Jordanova, V.; Published by: Journal of Geophysical Research: Space Physics Published on: 06/2015 YEAR: 2015 DOI: 10.1002/2015JA021333 |
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The twin Van Allen Probes spacecraft witnessed a series of lobe encounters between 0200 and 0515 UT on November 14th 2012. Although lobe entry had been observed previously by the other spacecraft, the two Van Allen Probe spacecraft allow us to observe the motion of the boundary for the first time. Moreover, this event is unique in that it consists of a series of six quasi-periodic lobe entries. The events occurred on the dawn flank between 4 and 6.6 local time and at altitudes between 5.6 and 6.2 RE. During the events Dst dropped to less than -100nT with the IMF being strongly southward (Bz = -15nT) and eastward (By = 20 nT). Observations by LANL GEO spacecraft at geosynchronous orbit also show lobe encounters in the northern hemisphere and on the dusk flank. The two spacecraft configuration provides strong evidence that these periodic entries into the lobe are the result of local expansions of the OCB propagating from the tail and passing over the Van Allen Probes. Examination of pitch angle binned data from the HOPE instrument shows spatially large, accelerated ion structures occurring near simultaneously at both spacecraft, with the presence of oxygen indicating that they have an ionospheric source. The outflows are dispersed in energy and are detected when the spacecraft are on both open and closed field lines. These events provide a chance to examine the global magnetic field topology in detail, as well as smaller scale spatial and temporal characteristics of the OCB, allowing us to constrain the position of the open/closed field line boundary and compare it to a global MHD model using a novel method. This technique shows that the model can reproduce a periodic approach and retreat of the OCB from the spacecraft but can overestimate its distance by as much as 3 RE. The model appears to simulate the dynamic processes that cause the spacecraft to encounter the lobe but incorrectly maps the overall topology of the magnetosphere during these extreme conditions. Dixon, P.; MacDonald, E.; Funsten, H.; Glocer, A.; Grande, M.; Kletzing, C.; Larsen, B.; Reeves, G.; Skoug, R.; Spence, H.; Thomsen, M.; Published by: Journal of Geophysical Research: Space Physics Published on: 05/2015 YEAR: 2015 DOI: 10.1002/2014JA020883 Lobes; Magnetosphere; Modelling; Open/closed field line boundary; Van Allen Probes |
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Solar cycle dependence of ion cyclotron wave frequencies Electromagnetic ion cyclotron (EMIC) waves have been studied for decades, though remain a fundamentally important topic in heliospheric physics. The connection of EMIC waves to the scattering of energetic particles from Earth\textquoterights radiation belts is one ofmany topics that motivate the need for a deeper understanding of characteristics and occurrence distributions of the waves. In this study, we show that EMIC wave frequencies, as observed at Halley Station in Antarctica from 2008 through 2012, increase by approximately 60\% from a minimum in 2009 to the end of 2012. Assuming that these waves are excited in the vicinity of the plasmapause, the change in Kp in going from solar minimum to near solar maximum would drive increased plasmapause erosion, potentially shifting the generation region of the EMIC to lower L and resulting in the higher frequencies. A numerical estimate of the change in plasmapause location, however, implies that it is not enough to account for the shift in EMIC frequencies that are observed at Halley Station. Another possible explanation for the frequency shift, however, is that the relative density of heavier ions in the magnetosphere (that would be associated with increased solar activity) could account for the change in frequencies. In terms of effects on radiation belt dynamics, the shift to higher frequencies tends to mean that these waves will interact with less energetic electrons, although the details involved in this process are complex and depend on the specific plasma and gyrofrequencies of all populations, including electrons. In addition, the change in location of the generation region to lower L shells means that the waves will have access to higher number fluxes of resonant electrons. Finally, we show a sunlit ionosphere can inhibit ground observations of EMIC waves with frequencies higher than ~0.5 Hz and note that the effect likely has resulted in an underestimate of the solar-cycle-driven frequency changes described here. Lessard, Marc; Lindgren, Erik; Engebretson, Mark; Weaver, Carol; Published by: Journal of Geophysical Research: Space Physics Published on: 04/2015 YEAR: 2015 DOI: 10.1002/2014JA020791 EMIC waves; Ion cyclotron; Magnetosphere; plasma waves; Radiation belts; solar cycles |
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What frequencies of standing surface waves can the subsolar magnetopause support? It is has been proposed that the subsolar magnetopause may support its own eigenmode, consisting of propagating surface waves which reflect at the northern/southern ionospheres forming a standing wave. While the eigenfrequencies of these so-called Kruskal-Schwartzschild (KS) modes have been estimated under typical conditions, the potential distribution of frequencies over the full range of solar wind conditions is not know. Using models of the magnetosphere and magnetosheath applied to an entire solar cycle\textquoterights worth of solar wind data, we perform time-of-flight calculations yielding a database of KS mode frequencies. Under non-storm times or northward interplanetary magnetic field (IMF), the most likely fundamental frequency is calculated to be inline image mHz, consistent with previous estimates and indirect observational evidence for such standing surface waves of the subsolar magnetopause. However, the distributions exhibit significant spread (of order \textpm0.3 mHz) demonstrating that KS mode frequencies, especially higher harmonics, should vary considerably depending on the solar wind conditions. The implications of such large spread on observational statistics are discussed. The subsolar magnetopause eigenfrequencies are found to be most dependent on the solar wind speed, southward component of the IMF and the Dst index, with the latter two being due to the erosion of the magnetosphere by reconnection and the former an effect of the expression for the surface wave phase speed. Finally, the possible occurrence of KS modes is shown to be controlled by the dipole tilt angle. Published by: Journal of Geophysical Research: Space Physics Published on: 04/2015 YEAR: 2015 DOI: 10.1002/2014JA020545 |
| 2014 |
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For over a decade, incoherent scatter radar observations of the mid and auroral-latitude ionosphere combined with ground based GPS observations of total electron content (TEC) have been used to study the intense storm enhanced density (SED) plumes that form over the Americas during major geomagnetic storms [1]. Magnetic field mapping of the ionospheric observations to magnetospheric heights revealed close correspondence between the SED and plasmasphere erosion plumes observed from space in EUV imagery by the IMAGE satellite [2]. During the current solar cycle the global distribution of GPS receivers used in creating the TEC maps and movies has increased significantly providing near-continuous two-dimensional coverage of TEC morphology and dynamics over much the northern hemisphere mid and high-latitude region. The dynamics and structure of the outer reaches of the plasmasphere, the plasmasphere boundary layer, are driven by coupling to overlying magnetospheric processes. To first order, cold plasma redistribution proceeds such that plasma parcels at ionospheric heights and at the apex of a magnetic field line move together in the E \texttimes B direction maintaining their magnetic field alignment. In this sense the TEC structure and dynamics imaged in the ionosphere projects along the magnetic field providing an image of the plasmaspheric configuration. The recently launched Van Allen Probes twin satellites (RBSP-A \& RBSP-B) are in near-equatorial orbits well suited for studies of phenomena at the apex of field lines threading the plasmasphere boundary layer. The RBSP instrumentation includes in situ electric field, density, ion composition, magnetic field, plasma wave, and full particle pitch angle and energy spectral information from <1 eV to 10s of MeV for ions and electrons. We use ground based TEC mapping to create 2-D images of the plasmasphere during transits of the RBSP and Themis spacecraft. We intercompare the dynamic changes in the plasmasphe- e configuration with the detailed in situ observations. We image and observe the transition from quiet plasmasphere, to erosion plume formation and development, to recovery. The RBSP spacecraft provide quantitative measurements of ion composition and erosion flux within the plume and the mapping between low and high altitudes facilitates intercomparisons between ionospheric and magnetospheric characteristics and phenomena. Published by: Published on: 08/2014 YEAR: 2014 DOI: 10.1109/URSIGASS.2014.6929943 magnetic fields; Magnetic resonance imaging; Magnetosphere; Van Allen Probes |
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The Sub-Auroral Polarization Stream (SAPS) is a geospace boundary layer phenomenon associated with the interaction of the warm plasma of the magnetospheric ring current with the cold ions and electrons of the outer plasmasphere [1]. Driven by ring current enhancements during magnetospheric disturbances, SAPS location, intensity, and characteristics are greatly influenced by the underlying ionosphere. Strong M-I coupling by means of field-aligned currents creates a high-speed (>1000 m/s) westward plasma flow channel in the ionosphere at pre-midnight/post-noon local times which is readily observable by incoherent scatter [2] and HF radars and in plasma drift observations by low-altitude spacecraft (e.g. DMSP). The fast ionospheric flows generate E-region irregularities providing for additional diagnostics using coherent backscatter techniques [3]. SAPS plays a significant role in the redistribution of cold plasma through the geospace system at both ionospheric and magnetospheric heights. Where the SAPS flow channel overlaps the mid-latitude ionosphere and outer plasmasphere, streams of cold plasma are carried westward and sunward as plumes of storm enhanced density (SED) in the ionosphere and as plasmasphere erosion plumes at high altitude. Ground-based maps of GPS total electron content (TEC) serve to visualize the spatial extent and evolution of the SAPS and SED. Mapping these features to magnetospheric altitudes along magnetic field lines permits direct intercomparison with in situ spacecraft observations. The recently launched Van Allen Probes twin satellites (RBSP-A \& RBSP-B) are in near-equatorial orbits well suited for studies of the SAPS and related phenomena at the apex of field lines threading the plasmasphere boundary layer. Simultaneous near magnetic field aligned observations of SAPS at DMSP altitude (\~800 km) and by RBSP-A at \~20,000 km show close correspondence of SAPS location and characteristics between the ionosphere and- magnetosphere. In highly elliptical orbits with apogee near 5.5 Re, the RBSP spacecraft often spend hours at a time skimming the outer plasmasphere within the SAPS region. A great variety of wave phenomena are observed. Here we describe long-duration large amplitude (+/- 5 mV/m) electric field oscillations with 3 min\textendash5 min period seen in the magnetospheric equatorial plane within the SAPS/erosion plume region. Foster, John; Erickson, Philip; Published by: Published on: 08/2014 YEAR: 2014 DOI: 10.1109/URSIGASS.2014.6929852 |
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The physics of the creation, loss, and transport of radiation belt particles is intimately connected to the electric and magnetic fields which mediate these processes. A key wave-particle interaction important to both acceleration and loss in the radiation belts is the of whistler-mode chorus interacting with energetic electrons. To measure this important radiation belt interaction, the two-satellite Van Allen Probes mission utilizes one of the most complete sets of measurements ever made in the inner magnetosphere. As part of the mission, the Electric and Magnetic Field Instrument Suite and Integrated Science (EMFISIS) investigation is an integrated set of instruments consisting of a tri-axial fluxgate magnetometer (MAG) and a Waves instrument which includes a tri-axial search coil magnetometer (MSC). These wave measurements allow sophisticated diagnosis of a variety of features important for whistlermode chorus including wave normal direction, direct waveform capture of the full electric and magnetic vector fields to investigate individual chorus elements, and determination of the key background parameters of plasma density and background magnetic field. Examples are shown of these measurements as well as progress on understanding aspects of chorus emission such as the gap at one-half the electron cyclotron frequency, comparison with the electron measurements in the energy range important for generation of chorus emission, and comparison with electrons that are energized by chorus. Published by: Published on: 08/2014 YEAR: 2014 DOI: 10.1109/URSIGASS.2014.6929872 Instruments; Magnetic field measurement; magnetic fields; Magnetometers; Magnetosphere; Van Allen Probes |
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Prompt energization of relativistic and highly relativistic electrons during a substorm interval On 17 March 2013, a large magnetic storm significantly depleted the multi-MeV radiation belt. We present multi-instrument observations from the Van Allen Probes spacecraft Radiation Belt Storm Probe A and Radiation Belt Storm Probe B at \~6 Re in the midnight sector magnetosphere and from ground-based ionospheric sensors during a substorm dipolarization followed by rapid reenergization of multi-MeV electrons [1]. A 50\% increase in magnetic field magnitude occurred simultaneously with dramatic increases in 100 keV electron fluxes and a 100 times increase in VLF wave intensity. Chorus is excited following the injection of low-energy (1\textendash30 keV) plasma sheet electrons into the inner magnetosphere [2]. During the 17 March substorm injection, cold plasma that had circulated into the nightside magnetosphere from the dayside ionosphere-plasmasphere contributed to an energetic (50 keV) electron population involved in chorus-mode wave amplification [3]. The high-energy tail (>100 keV) of the injected electrons and the intense VLF waves provide a seed population and energy source for subsequent radiation belt energization. The observed electron flux behavior is striking in its large increases over short intervals. As seen by RBSP-A at L* \~ 4.5 highly relativistic (>2MeV) electron fluxes increased immediately at the time of the substorm injection and strong chorus enhancement. At RBSP-B, at apogee at substorm onset, observed in the \~5 h separation between L* = 4.0 crossings, 3.60 MeV highly relativistic electron fluxes increased by a factor of 56, while 4.50 MeV flux increased by an even larger factor of 95. The 17 March multipoint observations indicate the significant role that substorm processes can play in creating a seed population of 100 keV electrons and VLF chorus wave enhancements that can lead to a prompt energization of relativistic and highly relativistic electrons in the region outside the plasm- pause. Foster, John; Erickson, Philip; Published by: Published on: 08/2014 YEAR: 2014 DOI: 10.1109/URSIGASS.2014.6929876 Magnetic flux; Magnetosphere; Van Allen Belts; Van Allen Probes |
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Radiation belt losses observed from multiple stratospheric balloons over Antarctica Relativistic electrons, trapped by Earth\textquoterights magnetic field, have received increasing attention since increasing numbers of commercial and research spacecraft traverse regions of high radiation flux. The Van Allen probes were launched into Earth\textquoterights radiation belts in September 2012, making comprehensive measurements of charged particle fluxes and electromagnetic fields, with the objective of a better understanding of the processes that modulate radiation belt fluxes. Because losses of radiation belt electrons to Earth\textquoterights atmosphere are very difficult to measure from high altitude spacecraft, a balloon-based program, consisting of campaigns in January 2013 and 2014, was funded to measure losses in conjunction with the Van Allen probes mission. We present results from both balloon campaigns, which succeeded in maintaining an array of balloons over Antarctica, achieving spacecraft conjunction measurements, and viewing several periods of disturbed magnetospheric activity. Measurements from a balloon platform uniquely allows loss measurements for several hundred seconds from the same location, and therefore illuminate the role of slow magnetic field variations in radiation belt losses. The coincident measurement of radiation belt losses by the balloon array provides vital information for understanding flux changes at geosynchronous altitudes, giving a means to distinguish true losses from lossless transport away from the spacecraft. McCarthy, Michael; Millan, Robyn; Sample, John; Smith, David; Published by: Published on: 08/2014 YEAR: 2014 DOI: 10.1109/URSIGASS.2014.6929960 Extraterrestrial measurements; Loss measurement; Magnetosphere; Van Allen Probes |
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Estimates of the power per mode number of broadband ULF waves at geosynchronous orbit In studies of radial diffusion processes in the magnetosphere it is well known that ultralow frequency (ULF) waves of frequency mωd can resonantly interact with particles of drift frequency ωd, where m is the waves\textquoteright azimuthal mode number. Due to difficulties in estimating m, an oversimplifying assumption is often made in simulations, namely that all ULF wave power is located at a single mode number. In this paper a technique is presented for extracting information on the distribution of ULF power in a range of azimuthal mode numbers. As a first step, the cross power and phase differences between time series from azimuthally aligned magnetometers are calculated. Subsequently, through integrating the ULF power at particular ranges of phase differences that correspond to particular mode numbers, estimates of the fraction of the total power at each phase difference range or mode number are provided. Albeit entwined with many ambiguities, this technique offers critical information that is currently missing when estimating radial diffusion of energetic particles. As proof-of-concept, the technique is first tested successfully for a well-studied case of narrowband ULF Field Line Resonances (FLR) for which the mode number was calculated simultaneously through ground-based and space measurements. Subsequently, the technique is demonstrated for the broadband ULF waves that accompanied the 2003 \textquotedblleftHalloween\textquotedblright magnetospheric storms. The temporal evolution of power at each mode number gives insight into the evolution of ULF waves during a storm as well as more accurate characterization of broadband ULF waves that can be used in radial diffusion simulations. Published by: Journal of Geophysical Research: Space Physics Published on: 07/2014 YEAR: 2014 DOI: 10.1002/2013JA019238 Magnetosphere; mode number; radial diffusion; Radiation belts; ULF waves; ultralow frequency |
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The Energetic Particle Detector (EPD) Investigation is one of 5 fields-and-particles investigations on the Magnetospheric Multiscale (MMS) mission. MMS comprises 4 spacecraft flying in close formation in highly elliptical, near-Earth-equatorial orbits targeting understanding of the fundamental physics of the important physical process called magnetic reconnection using Earth\textquoterights magnetosphere as a plasma laboratory. EPD comprises two sensor types, the Energetic Ion Spectrometer (EIS) with one instrument on each of the 4 spacecraft, and the Fly\textquoterights Eye Energetic Particle Spectrometer (FEEPS) with 2 instruments on each of the 4 spacecraft. EIS measures energetic ion energy, angle and elemental compositional distributions from a required low energy limit of 20 keV for protons and 45 keV for oxygen ions, up to >0.5 MeV (with capabilities to measure up to >1 MeV). FEEPS measures instantaneous all sky images of energetic electrons from 25 keV to >0.5 MeV, and also measures total ion energy distributions from 45 keV to >0.5 MeV to be used in conjunction with EIS to measure all sky ion distributions. In this report we describe the EPD investigation and the details of the EIS sensor. Specifically we describe EPD-level science objectives, the science and measurement requirements, and the challenges that the EPD team had in meeting these requirements. Here we also describe the design and operation of the EIS instruments, their calibrated performances, and the EIS in-flight and ground operations. Blake et al. (The Flys Eye Energetic Particle Spectrometer (FEEPS) contribution to the Energetic Particle Detector (EPD) investigation of the Magnetospheric Magnetoscale (MMS) Mission, this issue) describe the design and operation of the FEEPS instruments, their calibrated performances, and the FEEPS in-flight and ground operations. The MMS spacecraft will launch in early 2015, and over its 2-year mission will provide comprehensive measurements of magnetic reconnection at Earth\textquoterights magnetopause during the 18 months that comprise orbital phase 1, and magnetic reconnection within Earth\textquoterights magnetotail during the about 6 months that comprise orbital phase 2. Mauk, B.; Blake, J.; Baker, D.; Clemmons, J.; Reeves, G.; Spence, H.; Jaskulek, S.; Schlemm, C.; Brown, L.; Cooper, S.; Craft, J.; Fennell, J.; Gurnee, R.; Hammock, C.; Hayes, J.; Hill, P.; Ho, G.; Hutcheson, J.; Jacques, A.; Kerem, S.; Mitchell, D.; Nelson, K.; Paschalidis, N.; Rossano, E.; Stokes, M.; Westlake, J.; Published by: Space Science Reviews Published on: 06/2014 YEAR: 2014 DOI: 10.1007/s11214-014-0055-5 Magnetic reconnection; Magnetosphere; Magnetospheric multiscale; NASA mission; Particle acceleration; Space plasma |
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Photoelectron-mediated spacecraft potential fluctuations Electric field fluctuations such as those due to plasma waves in Earth\textquoterights magnetosphere may modulate photoelectrons emitted from spacecraft surface, causing fluctuations in spacecraft potential. We experimentally investigate such photoelectron-mediated spacecraft potential fluctuations. The photoelectric charge of a spacecraft model is found to increase with increasing applied electric field as more photoelectrons escape the spacecraft model surface and dissipates with a decrease in the electric field through collection of ambient plasma electrons. When the applied electric field is driven to oscillate at a frequency lower than the response frequency of the spacecraft model, the surface potential follows the electric field oscillations. The spacecraft model maintains an approximately constant potential if the electric field oscillations are driven at a much higher frequency. When a high-frequency electric field modulated by a low-frequency envelope is applied, rectified oscillations in the potential of the spacecraft model are observed. Our experimental results indicate that photoelectron-mediated wave rectifications must be taken into account when spacecraft potential fluctuations are used to infer plasma density structures. Wang, X.; Malaspina, D.; Ergun, R.; M., Hor\; Published by: Journal of Geophysical Research: Space Physics Published on: 02/2014 YEAR: 2014 DOI: 10.1002/2013JA019502 chorus waves; electric field; Magnetosphere; photoelectrons; plasma density; spacecraft potential fluctuations |
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One year of on-orbit performance of the Colorado Student Space Weather Experiment (CSSWE) The Colorado Student Space Weather Experiment is a 3-unit (10cm \texttimes 10cm \texttimes 30cm) CubeSat funded by the National Science Foundation and constructed at the University of Colorado (CU). The CSSWE science instrument, the Relativistic Electron and Proton Telescope integrated little experiment (REPTile), provides directional differential flux measurements of 0.5 to >3.3 MeV electrons and 9 to 40 MeV protons. Though a collaboration of 60+ multidisciplinary graduate and undergraduate students working with CU professors and engineers at the Laboratory for Atmospheric and Space Physics (LASP), CSSWE was designed, built, tested, and delivered in 3 years. On September 13, 2012, CSSWE was inserted to a 477 \texttimes 780 km, 65\textdegree orbit as a secondary payload on an Atlas V through the NASA Educational Launch of Nanosatellites (ELaNa) program. The first successful contact with CSSWE was made within a few hours of launch. CSSWE then completed a 20 day system commissioning phase which validated the performance of the communications, power, and attitude control systems. This was immediately followed by an accelerated 24 hour REPTile commissioning period in time for a geomagnetic storm. The high quality, low noise science data return from REPTile is complementary to the NASA Van Allen Probes mission, which launched two weeks prior to CSSWE. On September 13, 2013, CSSWE completed one year of on-orbit operations. In this talk we will discuss the issues encountered with designing and operating a cubesat in orbit. Data from the mission will be presented and discussed in the larger context of ionospheric and magnetospheric physics. Palo, Scott; Gerhardt, David; Li, Xinlin; Blum, Lauren; Schiller, Quintin; Kohnert, Rick; Published by: Published on: 01/2014 YEAR: 2014 DOI: 10.1109/USNC-URSI-NRSM.2014.6928087 artificial satellites; atmospheric measuring apparatus; Ionosphere; Magnetic Storms; Magnetosphere; Van Allen Probes |
| 2013 |
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Dynamics of the Earth\textquoterights Radiation Belts and Inner Magnetosphere Trapped by Earth\textquoterights magnetic field far above the planet\textquoterights surface, the energetic particles that fill the radiation belts are a sign of the Sun\textquoterights influence and a threat to our technological future. In the AGU monograph Dynamics of the Earth\textquoterights Radiation Belts and Inner Magnetosphere, editors Danny Summers, Ian R. Mann, Daniel N. Baker, and Michael Schulz explore the inner workings of the magnetosphere. The book reviews current knowledge of the magnetosphere and recent research results and sets the stage for the work currently being done by NASA\textquoterights Van Allen Probes (formerly known as the Radiation Belt Storm Probes). In this interview, Eos talks to Summers about magnetospheric research, whistler mode waves, solar storms, and the effects of the radiation belts on Earth. Published by: Eos, Transactions American Geophysical Union Published on: 12/2013 YEAR: 2013 DOI: 10.1002/eost.v94.5210.1002/2013EO520007 |
| 2012 |
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Radiation belt 2D and 3D simulations for CIR-driven storms during Carrington Rotation 2068 As part of the International Heliospheric Year, the Whole Heliosphere Interval, Carrington Rotation 2068, from March 20 to April 16, 2008 was chosen as an internationally coordinated observing and modeling campaign. A pair of solar wind structures identified as Corotating Interaction Regions (CIR), characteristic of the declining phase of the solar cycle and solar minimum, was identified in solar wind plasma measurements from the ACE satellite. Such structures have previously been determined to be geoeffective in producing enhanced outer zone radiation belt electron fluxes, on average greater than at solar maximum. MHD fields from the Coupled Magnetosphere\textendashIonosphere\textendashThermosphere (CMIT) model driven by ACE solar wind measurements at L1 have been used to drive both 2D and 3D weighted test particle simulations of electron dynamics for the CIR subset of the month-long CMIT fields. Dropout in electron flux at geosynchronous orbit and enhancement during recovery phase, characteristic of CIR-driven storms, is seen in these moderate (Dstmin=-56, -33 nT) events, while the two CIRs were characterized by increased solar wind velocity in the 650\textendash750 km/s range. The first beginning March 26 produced a greater enhancement in IMF Bz southward and stronger magnetospheric convection, leading to a greater radiation belt electron response at GOES. This study provides the first comparison of 2D and 3D particle dynamics in MHD simulation fields, incorporating the additional diffusive feature of Shebansky orbit trapping of electrons in the magnetic minima on the dayside above and below the equatorial plane. Overall loss occurs during the main phase for 2D and 3D simulations, while incorporation of plasmasheet injection in 2D runs produces a moderate enhancement for the March 26\textendash30 storm, less than observed at GOES, and recovery to initial flux levels as seen for the April 4\textendash7 storm. Hudson, M.; Brito, Thiago; Elkington, Scot; Kress, Brian; Li, Zhao; Wiltberger, Mike; Published by: Journal of Atmospheric and Solar-Terrestrial Physics Published on: 07/2012 YEAR: 2012 DOI: 10.1016/j.jastp.2012.03.017 |
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Weak turbulence in the magnetosphere: Formation of whistler wave cavity by nonlinear scattering We consider the weak turbulence of whistler waves in the in low-β inner magnetosphere of the earth. Whistler waves, originating in the ionosphere, propagate radially outward and can trigger nonlinear induced scattering by thermal electrons provided the wave energy density is large enough. Nonlinear scattering can substantially change the direction of the wave vector of whistler waves and hence the direction of energy flux with only a small change in the frequency. A portion of whistler waves return to the ionosphere with a smaller perpendicular wave vector resulting in diminished linear damping and enhanced ability to pitch-angle scatter trapped electrons. In addition, a portion of the scatteredwave packets can be reflected near the ionosphere back into the magnetosphere. Through multiple nonlinear scatterings and ionospheric reflections a long-lived wavecavity containing turbulent whistler waves can be formed with the appropriate properties to efficiently pitch-angle scatter trapped electrons. The primary consequence on the earth\textquoterights radiation belts is to reduce the lifetime of the trapped electron population. Crabtree, C.; Rudakov, L.; Ganguli, G.; Mithaiwala, M.; Galinsky, V.; Shevchenko, V.; Published by: Physics of Plasmas Published on: 01/2012 YEAR: 2012 DOI: 10.1063/1.3692092 |
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