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Assessing Dynamical Properties of the Atmosphere, Ionosphere, and Magnetosphere


Jan. 31, 2014, 3:30 p.m. - 5 p.m.
Slicther 6850

Presented By:
Michael Nicolls
Center for Geospace Studies, SRI International

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The weak radiowave scattering from electrons in the ionosphere is referred to as incoherent scatter (IS). The power spectrum of the scattered signal is related to the intrinsic density fluctuations of the medium through one of the most well-developed theories in plasma physics. IS measurements are particularly sensitive to ion motions in the upper atmosphere, allowing for studies of coupling to both the neutral and electron gases. In particular, observations with the Advanced Modular Incoherent Scatter Radar (AMISR) systems deployed at Poker Flat, Alaska and Resolute Bay, Nunavut are revealing dynamical properties of the ionosphere. I will discuss some of these areas, which include turbulence generation in the collision-dominated D-region, gravity wave dissipation and forcing throughout the lower thermosphere, and energy dissipation, heating, and plasma convection associated with solar wind-magnetosphere-ionosphere coupling.