Electrodynamics of the solar wind-magnetosphere-ionosphere-atmosphere coupled system

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This project will study the formation and variability of the terrestrial auroras to understand the structure and dynamics of the magnetosphere, and plasma acceleration processes. A focus of the project will be the electrical currents systems that effect magnetosphere-ionosphere coupling, and determining their role in the larger solar wind-magnetosphere-ionosphere-atmosphere system. Initially the study will focus on the magnetosphere under northwards interplanetary magnetic field orientation, when the structure of the magnetosphere and the appearance of auroral emissions at very high latitudes is poorly understood. Data sets that will be employed include the Active Magnetosphere and Planetary Electrodynamics Response Experiment (AMPERE), space-borne auroral cameras and plasma drift instruments, monitors in the interplanetary medium, and other space and ground based observatories.