Large plasma filaments and geomagnetic field fluctuations excited concomitantly by solar powered microwave transmissions
Abstract
We investigate large-scale, filament-type of ionospheric plasma turbulence produced by a ground-based solar-powered microwave transmission system. It is shown that microwaves can interact with the ionosphere, primarily, in the E region. Electron collisions play key roles in the generation of large-scale fluctuations in ionospheric plasma density and geomagnetic fields via a thermal filamentation instability. The threshold wave field intensities are found to be of ∼1 V m-1 for the instability. Possible radar detection of microwave-induced ionospheric plasma effects is discussed and planned for our future Arecibo experiments in Puerto Rico.
- Publication:
-
Physica Scripta Volume T
- Pub Date:
- July 2013
- DOI:
- 10.1088/0031-8949/2013/T155/014011
- Bibcode:
- 2013PhST..155a4011W