An evaluation of ionospheric probe performanc—II. The influence of vehicle wake effects on electron density and temperature measurements

Abstract

The theoretical performance and accuracy of the Sayers type of R.F. capacitance electron density probe are discussed in some detail, and results from two ionospheric flights of this probe are given. After a brief survey of current satellite wake theories, the broad features of a sounding rocket wake are postulated, and its likely extent calculated by a method applicable to almost any rocket and probe configuration. Both electron density and temperature data are shown to correlate well with the rocket attitude and the postulated wake, confirming the existence of a wake and its importance to probe measurements. Evidence for prolonged outgassing from the rocket motors was also found.