Comparative Studies of the Interaction and Ionospheric Processes at a Variety of Different "Non-Magnetic" Solar System Bodies

Investigator(s):

Andrew Nagy (PI) ; Kenneth Hansen (Co-PI)

Sponsor:

University of Michigan Ann Arbor, MI 48109 7347641817

Start Date/Expiration Date

2004-12-01 to 2005-11-30 (amended 2004-11-22)

Awarded Amount to Date:

$108,625

Abstract: Numerical simulations of the interactions of fast flowing plasma with non-magnetized bodies are used to isolate the ionospheric phenomena unique to those conditions - and to compare that ionospheric response with ionospheric conditions characteristic of plasma flow past magnetized bodies. In this way, ionospheric morphology and its solar wind or magnetospheric drivers are better understood for both types of ionospheres. The Magneto-Hydrodynamic (MHD) model simulator features spherically symmetric, multi-species capability, and achieves 10 km spatial resolution in the ionospheric regions. The numerical code is developed for Space Weather research purposes, and its application in this research demonstrates the mutually beneficial synergy between the fields of computational fluid dynamics, aerospace engineering, planetary atmospheres, and aeronomy.

NSF Org:

ATM - Division of Atmospheric Sciences

Award Number:

0455729

Award Instrument:

Continuing grant

Program Manager:

Robert B. Kerr
ATM Division of Atmospheric Sciences
GEO Directorate for Geosciences

NSF Program(s):

AERONOMY

Field Application(s):

Space

Program Reference Code(s):

UNASSIGNED, 0000

Program Element Code(s):

1521