Proposed Priority Science Operations Topic
SPOT 11: Topic 'Microphysics of Auroral Zone Energization (MAZE)'
Topic Description
This study is designed to look at the microphysics of wave-particle acceleration
in the auroral acceleration zone by resolving space-time ambiquities using the
the Polar Plasma Wave Instrument interferometer. The auroral acceleration
zone is known to contain double layers, ES ion cyclotron waves, and perhaps
lower hybrid solitary structures. For example a previous interferometer
instrument on the Viking satellite was able to resolve the spatial structure of
double layers and demonstrate that they propagate upwards. With the Polar PWI
interferometer we hope to confirm and extend the Viking measurements.
Additionally we will examine the subject of current driven instablities which has
never been resolved.
The prime focus areas are on the cleft ion fountain near 1000 MLT and the
discrete aurora region near 2200 MLT.
Epoch/Orbit CHARACTERISTICS
Southern hemisphere low altitude within one hour of 1000 MLT or 2200 MLT.
POLAR DATA REQUIRED
High rate PWI data in the interferometer low impedence mode.
POLAR De-Spun PLATFORM OPERATIONS
none
OTHER ISTP Missions/Instruments REQUIREMENTS
none
Topic Proposed by: Paul Kintner
e-mail: paul@ee.cornell.edu