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An auroral effect on the fair weather electric fieldEvidence is presented for coupling between the upper and lower atmosphere by means of the shorting out of the vertical mesospheric electric field by auroral radiation, which causes a transfer of mesospheric potential to the lower atmosphere. Measurements were made by an electric field antenna which was part of a parachute-borne payload, launched by rocket from near Fairbanks, Alaska. Data obtained from quiet time observations indicate the normal low altitude electric field pattern, with a greater field at high altitudes, while observations at disturbed times show a small field at high altitudes and a greater field at low altitudes. Means for observing this effect at lower latitudes are also suggested. While the data obtained support the proposed mechanism, it is noted that other mechanisms, such as direct modulation by large amounts of solar cosmic rays and aurorally produced charge separation, may also be important.
Document ID
19790043852
Acquisition Source
Legacy CDMS
Document Type
Reprint (Version printed in journal)
External Source(s)
Authors
Hale, L. C.
(Pennsylvania State Univ. University Park, PA, United States)
Croskey, C. L.
(Pennsylvania State University University Park, Pa., United States)
Date Acquired
August 9, 2013
Publication Date
March 15, 1979
Publication Information
Publication: Nature
Volume: 278
Subject Category
Geophysics
Accession Number
79A27865
Funding Number(s)
CONTRACT_GRANT: NSG-6004
Distribution Limits
Public
Copyright
Other

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