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Association of structured continuum emission with dynamic aurora.
E Spanswick1, J Liang2, J Houghton2
1Department of Physics and Astronomy, University of Calgary, 2500 University Drive N.W., Calgary, T2N 1N4, AB, Canada. elspansw@ucalgary.ca.
Nature Communications
|December 31, 2024
Summary
Structured continuum emission linked to dynamic aurora was observed. This finding reveals complex meso-scale coupling between auroral processes, plasma, and the neutral atmosphere.
Area of Science:
- Space Physics
- Atmospheric Science
- Plasma Physics
Background:
- Ionospheric luminosity, including aurora, reveals space environment dynamics.
- Continuum emission in the ionosphere is known but poorly studied in relation to aurora.
- Previous studies were limited by observational constraints.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate structured continuum emission associated with dynamic aurora.
- To analyze the spatial structure, spectra, and location of these emissions.
- To understand the coupling between auroral processes and the ionosphere.
Main Methods:
- Spectrally resolved measurements were utilized.
- Observations focused on dynamic auroral events.
- Analysis included spatial structure and spectral characteristics.
Main Results:
- Structured continuum emission was observed in conjunction with dynamic aurora.
- Detailed spectral and spatial information of these emissions was obtained.
- The findings add critical information about previously unexplained emissions.
Conclusions:
- Auroral processes, plasma, and the neutral atmosphere exhibit complex meso-scale coupling.
- This coupling is more intricate than previously understood.
- Meso-scale auroral precipitation may influence atmospheric chemistry to create continuum structure.
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