Joint two-dimensional observations of ground magnetic and ionospheric electric fields associated with auroral zone currents: 3. Auroral zone currents during the passage of a westward travelling surge

Main Article Content

B. Inhester
W. Baumjohann
R.A. Greenwald
E. Nielsen

Abstract

Ground magnetic perturbations and ionospheric electric fields have been observed by the Scandinavian Magnetometer Array and the STARE radars, respectively, during the passage of a westward travelling surge in the late evening sector. On the basis of these measurements, the three-dimensional current system in the vicinity of the westward travelling surge is modelled. The results support a current model recently proposed by Rostoker and co-workers on the basis of purely magnetic ground-based measurements. In particular, we can identify an upward field-aligned current of about 5 x 104 A in the head of the surge. Ahead of the surge, we find a south-eastward directed electric field. Additionally, we have some evidence for the existence of a southwestward directed electric field east of the surge. The latter may be explained by the generation of polarisation charges at the northern and southern boundaries of the higher conducting region east of the surge's head.


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How to Cite
Inhester, B., Baumjohann, W., Greenwald, R., & Nielsen, E. (1981). Joint two-dimensional observations of ground magnetic and ionospheric electric fields associated with auroral zone currents: 3. Auroral zone currents during the passage of a westward travelling surge. Journal of Geophysics, 49(1), 155-162. Retrieved from https://journal.geophysicsjournal.com/JofG/article/view/156

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