Sensitivity of cosmic ray trajectory calculations to geomagnetic field model representations

Abstract

Cosmic ray vertical cutoff rigidities at sea level have been calculated, using the trajectory-tracing method, for a number of different epochs. These calculations have been carried out for a world-wide grid of locations, and, in an effort to locate the cosmic ray equator, for a fine grid in the equatorial region. Comparison of the vertical cutoff rigidity values obtained using the International Geomagnetic Reference Field model for 1980.0 with those obtained from previous models shows systematic significant changes in the Atlantic Ocean region and over South America. The differences are greater than those predicted utilizing the older field models with their predicted secular change. The cutoff rigidity values calculated using the new IGRF 1980.0 field model appear to be in better agreement with data from cosmic ray latitude surveys in the Atlantic Ocean region. The changes in the cosmic ray equator are asymmetrical with essentially no changes in the equator position in the Asian and Pacific region, but with significant changes in the South American, Atlantic Ocean and West African regions. Calculations have also been undertaken for different directions of arrival for a satellite orbiting at 400 km altitude using the predicted 1980 field model and the interim 1980 field model adopted in 1981. Some differences have been found.