First results from the ELFIN mission.
Abstract
The Electron Loss and Fields Investigation with a Spatio-Temporal Ambiguity-Resolving option (ELFIN-STAR, or ELFIN*) mission, comprised of two identical 3U+ CubeSats, was launched in September 2018 to explore the mechanisms responsible for relativistic electron loss during magnetic storms. All instruments and spacecraft are functioning nominally providing at least one complete scan of the radiation belt L-shells once per orbit (90 min period) from each satellite (up to four possible, limited only by downlink capability). Pitch-angle resolved energy spectra of ions and electrons between 50-5000keV are routinely measured, as well as the local magnetic field and its variations in the electromagnetic ion cyclotron (EMIC) wave frequency range (at the equatorial point of the field line), in order to determine the role of EMIC waves in relativistic electron precipitation. Survey mode allows after-the-fact selection for downlink of interesting periods, based on local activity and quality of conjunctions with THEMIS and other equatorial satellites, using on quick-look data. Satellite separations enable resolution of spatial from temporal variations to determine definitively the latitudinal extent and temporal evolution of the precipitation. We show how the first results guarantee a rich dataset with high scientific potential to be collected over the mission lifetime.
- Publication:
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AGU Fall Meeting Abstracts
- Pub Date:
- December 2019
- Bibcode:
- 2019AGUFMSA44A..14A
- Keywords:
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- 7837 Neutral particles;
- SPACE PLASMA PHYSICS;
- 7868 Wave/wave interactions;
- SPACE PLASMA PHYSICS;
- 7894 Instruments and techniques;
- SPACE PLASMA PHYSICS;
- 7944 Ionospheric effects on radio waves;
- SPACE WEATHER