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Updated: Jun 16, 2026
10:22
In Situ SIMS and IR Spectroscopy of Well-defined Surfaces Prepared by Soft Landing of Mass-selected Ions
Published on: June 16, 2014
Summary
The ISIS-II dual wavelength scanning auroral photometer maps auroral emissions at 5577 A and 3914 A. This instrument provides a unique, unobstructed view of auroras from space, aiding in the study of their distribution and morphology.
Area of Science:
- Space Physics
- Atmospheric Science
- Remote Sensing
Background:
- Auroral emissions are crucial indicators of upper atmospheric processes.
- Previous auroral studies were often limited by ground-based perspectives and atmospheric interference.
Purpose of the Study:
- To map auroral emissions at 5577 A and 3914 A using the ISIS-II dual wavelength scanning auroral photometer.
- To analyze the large-scale distribution and morphology of auroras.
- To investigate the ratio of 3914-A and 5577-A emissions as an indicator of energetic particle precipitation.
Main Methods:
- Utilized a dual wavelength scanning auroral photometer aboard the ISIS-II spacecraft.
- Employed a combination of internal electronic scanning and spacecraft motion for systematic earthward scanning.
- Generated separate image data for each wavelength (5577 A and 3914 A).
Main Results:
- Successfully mapped auroral emissions over the visible dark Earth.
- Produced distinct images representing emissions at 5577 A and 3914 A.
- Enabled comprehensive surveys of auroral regions within a single satellite pass.
Conclusions:
- The ISIS-II photometer provides an effective photometric equivalent of an all-sky camera with a superior vantage point.
- The instrument facilitates detailed studies of auroral distribution, morphology, and particle energy.
- Data collected allows for comparison with other ground-based and spaceborne instruments.
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