Visions-3: Using Sounding Rockets and 3D Tomography to Analyze Ion Outflow

Abstract

VISualizing Ion Outflow via Neutral atom Sensing (VISIONS)and VISIONS-2 are sounding rocket missions with the goal of analyzing the auroral wind and cusp ion outflow using low energy neutral atom (ENA)imaging at low altitudes of the ionosphere (P.I. Dr. Douglas Rowland, NASA Goddard). VISIONS-3 is the proposed follow-up mission, intended to use tomographic reconstruction with two launch vehicles. The overlap of line-of-sight regions from the two viewpoints of the sounding rockets provides boundary conditions to mathematically constrain data analysis, similar to a CAT scan. Each payload will house at least two Experimental Energy Neutral Atom Imager (E-ENA)instruments, oriented to point opposite directions out of the rocket. A data simulation is being created to model the line-of-sight regions from each rocket to deduce the intake of energized particles by each instrument detector. This data simulation will more fully define the benefits of launching two rockets rather than just one, as well as to model the use of tomography. The Norway launch range was selected for the launch, with two Black Brant XII Sounding Rockets from Wallops Flight Facility launched between 1–3 minutes apart with a launch azimuth separation of 6–16 degrees. The launch will be during the day to analyze the poleward moving auroral forms. The significance of this research is that insight into our ionosphere, magnetosphere, ion outflow, and the “boiling off” phenomenon of our atmosphere may provide understanding of how the atmosphere of other planets (e.g. Mars)disappeared. This would provide further insight into the life cycle of planets and atmospheres. Additionally, a heightened understanding of space physics could lead to the ability to predict which exoplanets may have an atmosphere and magnetic field like Earth using deep space telescopes. This presentation will focus on the mission design.