Splinter Group - Chairs: Dave Klumpar (Lockheed Martin) & Dirk Lummerzheim (University of Alaska, Fairbanks)

Session Synopsis:

Recognizably similar phenomena, often differing in fundamental ways, are seen over a wide range of altitudes along auroral flux tubes. Examples are.solitary waves, electrostatic shocks, auroral density cavities, ion beams and conics, upgoing and counterstreaming electrons, etc. What are the differences between high and low altitude counterparts of auroral phenomena and how well do we understand them?. Are there accurate, physically descriptive models of the evolution of the various processes along high latitude field lines? What data sets do we need, and what additions to existing models are necessary to fully understand the altitude profiles of the phenomena.

The atmosphere of the session will be that of a working introspective environment:

> What are the important differences,
> what substantive issues need better understanding,
> how do we address them.

The session chairs are eager for advance suggestions for specific events and an early indication from those interested in participating in the session. Contact the chairmen, Dave Klumpar and DirkLummerzheim