New Millennium Research at the Jicamarca Radio Observatory

Cornell University, Ithaca NY

Investigators

Abstract

ATM9911209abs Cornell University will continue operations of the Jicamarca Radio Observatory (JRO) located near Lima, Peru. The main instrument at JRO is the 50 MHz incoherent scatter radar. Also on site are other antennas (some steerable, some broad beam) that are used for studies of plasma instabilities. Nearby instruments used for coordinated experiments include a digisonde, magnetometers and optical instruments. The scientific research conducted by JRO staff and other visiting scientists includes studies of the thermal structure of the equatorial ionosphere, low latitude electrodynamics, plasma instabilities, and thermospheric and mesospheric dynamics. A new capability of the radar called JULIA allows the radar to be operated almost continuously in a low power mode to study the occurrence and evolution of plasma instabilities in the equatorial ionosphere. Major research topics include: (1) the thermal structure of the equatorial ionosphere, (2) low latitude electrodynamics during both quiet and disturbed times, (3) plasma instabilities in the E-region electrojet, in the region near 150 km altitude, and in the F region, (4) lower thermosphere dynamics and the effects of winds and waves in the neutral atmosphere, (5) equatorial mesospheric dynamics and the effect of the mesosphere on higher regions, and (6) minor studies of other phenomena, such as long term changes in the geomagnetic field. Science activities at Jicamarca contribute to understanding of global change and space weather.