Abstract Using the empirical terrestrial magnetospheric magnetic field models of Tsyganenko and Usmanov (TU) and Tsyganenko (T87), we determined the average field-aligned currents (FACs) in the magnetosphere as a function of the K p index. We identify three major model FAC systems; dayside region 1 (DR1), nightside region 1 (NR1), and nightside polar cap (NPC). The models provide information about the sources of the current systems. Mapped ionospheric model FACs are compared with low-altitude measurements obtained by the MAGSAT spacecraft. We find that low-altitude data can reveal either classic region or more highly structured FAC patterns. We therefore expect statistical results, either obtained from observations or inferred from models, to be averages over temporally and spatially shifting patterns.
Comparison of field-aligned currents at ionospheric and magnetospheric altitudes
Advances in Space Research ; 8 , 9-10 ; 343-346
1989-01-01
4 pages
Article (Journal)
Electronic Resource
English
Field-aligned currents and ion convection at high altitudes
Elsevier | 1985
|Observations of magnetospheric convection from low altitudes
Elsevier | 1985
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