Solving the radiation belt riddle : a guide to phase space density

Hartley, Dave and Denton, Michael (2014) Solving the radiation belt riddle : a guide to phase space density. Astronomy and Geophysics, 55 (6). 6.17-6.20. ISSN 1366-8781

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Abstract

Spacecraft in the near-Earth environment typically measure the electron flux at a single position and time. It is the ability to interpret these measurements - in parallel with the variations of the geomagnetic field - that is essential to advance the understanding of radiation belt dynamics. Phase space density is a calculated quantity that can account for these magnetic fluctuations - as it utilises a coordinate system relating to the trajectories of radiation belt particles. This article provides a step-by-step review of the techniques used to convert measured electron fluxes to phase space density, independent from satellite instrumentation and detailed analysis. In addition, examples of how specific source and loss processes might be observed in the phase space density signature are discussed.

Item Type:
Journal Article
Journal or Publication Title:
Astronomy and Geophysics
Uncontrolled Keywords:
/dk/atira/pure/subjectarea/asjc/1900/1906
Subjects:
?? geochemistry and petrologyastronomy and astrophysicsgeophysics ??
ID Code:
69417
Deposited By:
Deposited On:
09 May 2014 12:07
Refereed?:
Yes
Published?:
Published
Last Modified:
17 Feb 2024 00:45