Concerning sources of 0(¹D) in aurora: Electron impact and dissociative recombination

Abstract

The electron impact and dissociative recombination source functions of 0(¹D) in aurora are examined. The data from nine AE‐D passes plus one rocket flight are examined at altitudes between 150 km and 335 km. It is found that in nightime aurora 90% of the total source function is unindentified below 200 km. Electron impact (including thermal electrons) and dissociative recombination are probably adequate source functions above 250 km.