Validation study of the magnetically self‐consistent inner magnetosphere model RAM‐SCB

Abstract

The validation of the magnetically self‐consistent inner magnetospheric model RAM‐SCB developed at Los Alamos National Laboratory is presented here. The model consists of two codes: a kinetic ring current–atmosphere interaction model (RAM) and a 3‐D equilibrium magnetic field code (SCB). The validation is conducted by simulating two magnetic storm events and then comparing the model results against a variety of satellite in situ observations, including the magnetic field from Cluster and Polar spacecraft, ion differential flux from the Cluster/CODIF (Composition and Distribution Function) analyzer, and the ground‐based SYM‐H index. The model prediction of the magnetic field is in good agreement with observations, which indicates the model's capability of representing well the inner magnetospheric field configuration. This provides confidence for the RAM‐SCB model to be utilized for field line and drift shell tracing, which are needed in radiation belt studies. While the SYM‐H index, which reflects the total ring current energy content, is generally reasonably reproduced by the model using the Weimer electric field model, the modeled ion differential flux clearly depends on the electric field strength, local time, and magnetic activity level. A self‐consistent electric field approach may be needed to improve the model performance in this regard.