Spatial and Temporal Variability of Radiation Belt Electrons Using FIREBIRD-II and the Van Allen Probes
Abstract
The spatial and temporal distribution of high energy electron precipitation from the Van Allen radiation belts is not well-understood. The FIREBIRD-II mission (2015-present) and the Van Allen Probes (2012-2019) provide a unique opportunity to examine the behaviors and drivers of high energy electron precipitation. This study quantifies electron precipitation as a function of radial distance (L-shell), local time (MLT), hemisphere, and geomagnetic indices. FIREBIRD-II observations of electron precipitation were observed to peak at L-shell 4-6, with peak precipitation decreasing and shifting to higher L-shell over time. Regions of elevated electron precipitation were identified at L-shell 4-6 at late dawn (MLT 6-9) and dusk (MLT 15-21). Electron precipitation was observed to be elevated during increased geomagnetic activity. In addition, this work searches for connections between EMIC waves observed by the Van Allen Probes and electron precipitation observed by FIREBIRD-II. During times of observed EMIC activity by the Van Allen Probes the FIREBIRD-II satellites recorded increased electron precipitation, with some MLT regions of increased activity agreeing with previous studies on EMIC occurrence rates.
- Publication:
-
AGU Fall Meeting Abstracts
- Pub Date:
- December 2020
- Bibcode:
- 2020AGUFMSM009..07R
- Keywords:
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- 2455 Particle precipitation;
- IONOSPHERE;
- 2716 Energetic particles: precipitating;
- MAGNETOSPHERIC PHYSICS;
- 7867 Wave/particle interactions;
- SPACE PLASMA PHYSICS;
- 7999 General or miscellaneous;
- SPACE WEATHER