Meers Oppenheim (Boston University, USA) Thirty Years of Simulating Waves in the Electrojets: What have we Learned and Why does that Matter for Measurements and Modeling

Meers Oppenheim (Boston University, USA) will deliver a talk on the topic "Thirty Years of Simulating Waves in the Electrojets: What have we Learned and Why does that Matter for Measurements and Modeling".

Abstract:

The  E-region ionosphere frequently develops plasma instabilities, especially in the storm-time electrojets (EJ) where intense currents flow. These instabilities create plasma density irregularities frequently detected by radars and rockets.  The strongest and most frequently detected of these is the Farley-Buneman (FB) instability, though there are a variety of others that also develop, including gradient-drift, sporadic-E, electron and ion thermal, and meteor-driven instabilities. While linear theory accurately predicts the onset criteria for many of these irregularities, to explain the observed features and the consequences of these nonlinearly saturated waves one must apply simulations and nonlinear theories.  This talk will discuss the progress made in understanding EJ waves through theory and simulations.  We’ll talk about how our understanding of Ionospheric wave growth enabled us to model similar waves in the solar atmosphere.  Lastly, we will show how these studies have given us a better understanding of wave-modified conductance and the interpretations of measurements in the lower ionosphere.