VEX observations of solar wind-ionosphere coupling via ULF waves

Venusian space weather involves a complex balance between ionizing photon fluxes that protect the lower atmosphere and fields that accelerate these ions to escape velocities. This study explores solar wind perturbations of the local magnetic field as a means of energizing the ionosphere. Ultra-low frequency (ULF) plasma waves in a planet's foreshock may generate compressional bow shock oscillations, and Collinson et al. (2018) demonstrate that such compressional activity results in seasonal enhancements of Martian ionospheric escape fluxes. In our study, we identify upstream ULF waves in Venus Express data and trace these magnetic field signatures into the induced ionosphere. Our preliminary results indicate that ionospheric ULF waves occur for a range of shock angles but may favor a radial interplanetary magnetic field orientation. We present Venusian ionospheric wave events for both quiescent and extreme solar wind conditions.