Abstract
Abstract. Electron density profiles in the Martian ionosphere observed by the radio occultation experiment on board Mars Global Surveyor have been analyzed to determine if the densities are influenced by the solar wind. Evidence is presented that the altitude of the maximum ionospheric electron density shows a positive correlation to the energetic proton flux in the solar wind. The solar wind modulation of the Martian ionosphere can be attributed to heating of the neutral atmosphere by the solar wind energetic proton precipitation. The modulation is observed to be most prominent at high solar zenith angles. It is argued that this is consistent with the proposed modulation mechanism.
Highlights
When the solar wind encounters Mars it is deflected around the planet by forces, which arise in the interactions among the solar wind, the ionosphere, the neutral atmosphere and the planet’s intrinsic magnetic field
In this paper we examine experimental observations of electron density profiles in the ionosphere to determine if the electron densities are affected by the solar wind
Experimental evidence has been presented that the height of the electron density in the Martian ionosphere is influenced by the energetic proton flux in the solar wind, in such a way that the altitude increases when the flux increases
Summary
When the solar wind encounters Mars it is deflected around the planet by forces, which arise in the interactions among the solar wind, the ionosphere, the neutral atmosphere and the planet’s intrinsic magnetic field (crustal magnetic field, perhaps by a magnetic field induced in the ionosphere). Over most of Mars it is the solar wind interaction with the neutral atmosphere that is the important process. The neutral atmosphere above the ionopause is ionised and carried away by the solar wind, slowing the solar wind down and deflecting it in the process (e.g. Luhmann and Bauer, 1992). In this paper we examine experimental observations of electron density profiles in the ionosphere to determine if the electron densities are affected by the solar wind. Measurements made by Mars Global Surveyor (MGS) provide altitude profiles of electron density with sufficient time resolution, as well as time duration, to allow such an examination
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
