Comment on “Radiation-Belt Remediation Using Space-Based Antennas and Electron Beams” by Carlsten et al.

Abstract

In a recent article, Carlsten et al. state “VLF modes in the ionosphere can be driven either by an antenna or by an electron beam” and dismiss the U.S. Naval Research Laboratory (NRL) concept of producing the very low frequency (VLF) waves by high-speed neutral atom injection perpendicular to the magnetic field as “impractical.” In this comment, we highlight that the scientific basis used to make this conclusion is dubious and point to published literature that refutes this conclusion that was not cited in their article.