Rocket probe techniques for measuring bulk ion properties
Abstract
An overview of rocket probe techniques for measuring middle atmosphere ion properties is presented. The measured parameters include conductivity, ion mobility and number density, all of which characterize the region's electrical structure. Particular consideration is given to the Gerdien condenser because of its capability to measure all three of these ion quantities. This probe was adapted for flight operation while either attached to a rocket or, more often, descending on a parachute. The use of a parachute potentially enhances the probe's measurement capabilities and also it lessens detrimental flow effects on ion collection. From the brief presentation of measurement results, it is demonstrated that a variety of presently flown probe systems, both supersonic and subsonic, show general consistency in measuring conductivity; and, in fact, they occasionally have been combined to enhance overall investigations. Also, it is observed that electrical conductivity is the most variable of the three parameters, having a strong dependence on temperature, solar conditions, and local ionization sources.
- Publication:
-
In International Council of Scientific Unions Handbook for MAP
- Pub Date:
- March 1986
- Bibcode:
- 1986icsu...19Q....M
- Keywords:
-
- Ion Currents;
- Ion Density (Concentration);
- Ionic Mobility;
- Middle Atmosphere;
- Rocket Sounding;
- Atmospheric Density;
- Electrical Properties;
- Electrostatic Probes;
- Gerdien Condensers;
- Positive Ions;
- Geophysics