Height distribution of luminosity of the molecular nitrogen bands in polar aurorae.

Rocket data shows that, in a bright auroral arc, the value of the ratio of volume emission rates eta(3914)/eta(3371) at heights of 100-130 km may be at least twice the value of this ratio calculated under the condition of the collisional interaction of electrons precipitating from the upper atmosphere. These values can be explained by taking into account collisional processes in the ionosphere which develop in bright auroral forms. Spectral distributions of secondary electrons at different heights were obtained; during collective interactions, the excitation of ING N2(+) 3914 A by the secondary-electron flux can reach 70 percent. In addition, an increase in the density of secondary electrons is shown to occur at the boundary of the turbulent layer (120 km).