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Solar wind and extreme ultraviolet modulation of the lunar ionosphere/exosphereThe ALSEP/SIDE detectors routinely monitor the dayside lunar ionosphere. Variations in the ionosphere are found to correlate with both the 2800 MHz radio index which can be related to solar EUV and with the solar wind proton flux. For the solar wind, the ionospheric variation is proportionately greater than that of the solar wind. This suggests an amplification effect on the lunar atmosphere due perhaps to sputtering of the surface or, less probably, an inordinate enhancement of noble gases in the solar wind. The surface neutral number density is calculated under the assumption of neon gas. During a quiet solar wind this number agrees with or is slightly above that expected for neon accreted from the solar wind. During an enhanced solar wind the neutral number density is much higher.
Document ID
19770032937
Acquisition Source
Legacy CDMS
Document Type
Reprint (Version printed in journal)
Authors
Freeman, J. W.
(Rice University Houston, Tex., United States)
Date Acquired
August 9, 2013
Publication Date
November 1, 1976
Publication Information
Publication: Geophysical Research Letters
Volume: 3
Subject Category
Solar Physics
Accession Number
77A15789
Funding Number(s)
CONTRACT_GRANT: NGL-44-006-012
CONTRACT_GRANT: NSG-7157
Distribution Limits
Public
Copyright
Other

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