Robust measurements of the electron-neutral collision frequency using plasma impedance probes

Abstract

Local measurement of ionospheric parameters such as electron density, electron neutral collision frequency, neutral density, and the background temperature has a great benefit to improve the empirical models and validate remote observations of the lower ionosphere. One of the well-established instruments that have been used on rocket payloads and satellites to study the dynamic and temporal evolution of the ionospheric plasma is the plasma impedance probe (PIP). The PIP consists of an electrically short antenna that has a radiating part when placed in a plasma environment. It has been shown that the variation of characteristic features of the antenna input impedance is modified by local plasma parameters which can be used to infer ionospheric parameters. This paper aims at combining different aspects of the PIP characteristic impedance curve in order to make the measurements of local plasma parameters robust. The idea of using two different antenna types on the same payload is investigated. The input phase information along with the input impedance amplitude is employed for the first time to examine the idea of using two antenna types as PIP on the same mission for exact ionospheric plasma and neutral density observations. The unique impedance characteristic curves of dipole and patch antennas are shown to be able to enhance the accuracy of the observations.