A global model of the neutral thermosphere in magnetic coordinates based on OGO 6 data

Data from the OGO 6 satellite have been analyzed in magnetic latitude and magnetic local time coordinates for various seasons and magnetic activity levels. These measurements show considerable detail, particularly in the auroral regions where the energy inputs are well organized in this coordinate system. This detail is not readily observed in models based on geographic coordinates. Atomic oxygen and helium densities and a parameter related to the molecular nitrogen density were analyzed. The long-term averages of these quantities are presented in graphical form and as analytic functions to provide models of these thermospheric parameters. The atomic oxygen and helium densities show minima at high latitudes in the postmidnight sector for nearly all seasons and magnetic activity levels. The exospheric temperature inferred from the N2 density increases toward high latitudes for all seasons and all magnetic activity levels. This inferred temperature is about 300 deg K higher at the summer magnetic pole than at the winter magnetic pole.