Multi‐MeV Electron Dynamics Near the Inner Edge of the Outer Radiation Belt

Abstract

AbstractA variety of dynamic behavior of multi‐MeV electrons near the inner edge of the outer radiation belt has been revealed by detailed analysis of Van Allen Probes data. This study presents multi‐MeV electron flux and phase space density (PSD) using Van Allen Probes data during two strong geomagnetic storms to reveal their energy‐dependent dynamics in the outer belt, with dynamics occurring on timescales of hours to ∼1 week. Enhancements are shown down to L = 2.6, where ∼3 MeV electron populations are enhanced by an order of magnitude during one storm of study. Study of a second comparable storm shows rapid depletion of electron populations up to ∼7 MeV in the region 2.6 ≤ L ≤ 3. We also identify a local electron PSD peak at L ≈ 3 that slowly accumulates during quiet time and is rapidly depleted during an intense storm. Possible contributors to these dynamics are discussed.