Penetrating of high-latitude-electric-field effects to low latitudes during SUNDIAL 1984

Abstract

Electric-field-penetration events have been identified using F-region vertical-drift measurements obtained in the October 6-13, 1984 period by the Jicamarcan incoherent-backscatter radar and corresponding h-prime F measurements from ionosondes at Fortaleza, Cachoeira Paulista, and Dakar. Predictions made using the Rice Convection Model for the pattern, strength, and duration of the low-latitude electric field occurring in response to an increasing high-latitude convection agree with observations. The observed 1-2 h duration of the low-latitude response to decreased convection can be explained by the fossil-wind theory of Richmond (1983).