Comparing OpenGGCM event simulations to observed ionospheric electrodynamics.

We will compare the electrodynamic quantities simulated with the Open Geospace General Circulation Model (OpenGGCM) with observations from DMSP, ground based magnetometers, and notably the Iridium constellation of satellites. We will show that field aligned currents (Iridium), cross polar cap potentials, and height integrated conductances (satellite based imaging) can be successfully simulated on the dayside with global MHD. Three specific events will be examined; 4 August, 2001 13:00-15:00 UT, 31 August, 2001 04:45- 06:45 UT, and 18 November, 2002 15:15-17:15 UT. These three events were selected for maximal observational coverage and steady IMF driving conditions (Bz~By~ -4nT) and correspond to northern solstice, equinox, and southern solstice-like conditions.