IMAGE observations of plasmasphere/ring current interactions

Dennis L. Gallagher, Mark L. Adrian, Joseph D. Perez, 
Bill R. Sandel


Evidence has been found in IMAGE observations that overlap of the
plasmasphere and the ring current may lead to enhanced loss of
plasma into the ionosphere. It has long been anticipated that
this mixing of plasma leads to coupling and resulting
consequences on both populations. Wave generation, pitch angle
scattering, and heating are some of the consequences that are
anticipated. IMAGE plasmasphere, ring current, and auroral
observations will be presented and used to explore these
interactions and their effects.

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Presented at the IUGG/IAGA meeting, Sapporo, Japan 
30 June - 11 July 2003