Substorm observations of magnetic perturbations and ULF waves at synchronous orbit by ATS-1 and ATS-6In the empirical study of the geomagnetic cavity, the synchronous equatorial orbit has been shown to be a most advantageous site for scientific measurements. Satellites in this orbit are fixed in the earth's main magnetic field so that the records are not dominated by changes due to satellite motion through this field. Also, the satellites traverse the same geometric region of space daily, thus facilitating statistical studies of magnetospheric phenomena. Thirdly, the magnetic field lines leaving the earth's surface near the auroral zone cross the equatorial plane close to this orbit, thus subjecting the region to a number of such phenomena. Previous observations at synchronous orbit with the UCLA fluxgate magnetometers on ATS-1 and ATS-6 have revealed a variety of substorm-associated field variations. These effects may be divided tentatively into two classes, those resulting from instabilities (ULF waves) and those produced by changes in macroscopic current systems. The data and their interpretations will be reviewed in order to illustrate the potential importance of observations in the synchronous orbit during the International Magnetospheric Study.
Document ID
19760054357
Acquisition Source
Legacy CDMS
Document Type
Conference Proceedings
Authors
Coleman, P. J., Jr. (California Univ. Los Angeles, CA, United States)
Mcpherron, R. L. (California, University Los Angeles, Calif., United States)
Date Acquired
August 8, 2013
Publication Date
January 1, 1976
Subject Category
Geophysics
Meeting Information
Meeting: The scientific satellite programme during the International Magnetospheric Study