Flow tracing through the auroral acceleration region
Christopher Chaston, Research Physicist
Space Sciences Laboratory
Closed. This professor is continuing with Fall 2023 apprentices on this project; no new apprentices needed for Spring 2024.
The spectacular display of light seen at high latitudes and known as the aurora is a consequence of the conversion of electromagnetic energy to particle kinetic energy. The motions in these luminous features are a marker for how the energy conversion operates. This project seeks to trace the motion of elements of light seen in these displays to identify the physics defining the energy conversion process.
Role: This research will involve the analysis of visible imagery in the form of movies of active auroral displays. Techniques to trace optical elements in these features will be implemented to derive flow patterns describing the flow of plasmas above the Earth's atmosphere. The student will gain experience in the analysis of dynamic imagery and familiarity with the physics of auroral particle acceleration.
Qualifications:
The student should be familiar with Maxwell's equations. The ability to write computer code is necessary.
Hours: 3-5 hrs
Off-Campus Research Site: Covid Safe/Remote
Related website: https://www.isas.jaxa.jp/e/forefront/2006/hirahara/index.shtml