Ionospheric contribution to the plasma environment in near-earth space

Journal Article · Sat Jun 01 04:00:00 EDT 1985 · Radio Sci.; (United States)

DOI:https://doi.org/10.1029/RS020i003p00456· OSTI ID:6422655

Sharp, R D; Lennartsson, W; Strangeway, R J

SCATHA and ISEE 1 satellite ion mass spectrometer data on ion composition near GEO are reviewed. The data were gathered during and close to magnetic storm activity to assess the characteristics of ion composition variations in order to predict the effects of hot GEO plasma on spacecraft instruments. Attention is given to both substorms and storms, the former being associated, at high latitudes, with auroral activity, the latter with ring currents. The ionosphere was found to supply hot H(+), O(+) and He(+) ions to the GEO magnetosphere, while the solar wind carried H(+) and He(+) ions. The ionosphere was the dominant source in both quiet and storm conditions in the inner magnetosphere. 11 references.

• Research Organization: Lockheed Research Labs., Palo Alto, CA; California Univ., Los Angeles
• OSTI ID: 6422655
• Journal Information: Radio Sci.; (United States), Journal Name: Radio Sci.; (United States) Vol. 20; ISSN RASCA
• Country of Publication: United States
• Language: English

Related Subjects

640203* -- Atmospheric Physics-- Magnetospheric Phenomena-- (-1987)
71 CLASSICAL AND QUANTUM MECHANICS
GENERAL PHYSICS
CATIONS
CHARGED PARTICLES
CURRENTS
EARTH ATMOSPHERE
EARTH MAGNETOSPHERE
ELECTRIC CURRENTS
HOT PLASMA
ION DENSITY
IONOSPHERE
IONS
MAGNETIC STORMS
MASS SPECTROMETERS
MEASURING INSTRUMENTS
PLANETARY IONOSPHERES
PLASMA
PLASMA DENSITY
RING CURRENTS
SATELLITES
SOLAR ACTIVITY
SOLAR WIND
SPECTROMETERS