Space Weather: Development of an Empirical Model of Inner Magnetospheric Density

University Of Massachusetts Lowell, Lowell MA

Investigators

Abstract

This project will initiate the development of a model of the plasma density distribution within the magnetosphere. It will utilize data from the RPI (Radio Plasma Imager) instrument on the IMAGE satellite. A mathematical inversion algorithm has been developed that allows the local plasma density measured at the satellite to be combined with the RPI data to determine the plasma density all long the magnetic field line on which the satellite is situated. Combining data from similar magnetic conditions will make it possible to derive a density model as a function of latitude, radial distance and local time. The resulting models will be made available to the space weather community. The project will support a graduate student from an under-represented minority.