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 1 2 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.


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    Title :

    Comparison of field-aligned currents at ionospheric and magnetospheric altitudes


    Contributors:

    Published in:

    Advances in Space Research ; 8 , 9-10 ; 343-346


    Publication date :

    1989-01-01


    Size :

    4 pages




    Type of media :

    Article (Journal)


    Type of material :

    Electronic Resource


    Language :

    English



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