Plasmaspheric Refilling Models in Light of IMAGE Observations

Z.B. Smith (ELMCO Inc. Huntsville, AL and CSPAR, The University of Alabama
in Huntsville, AL 35899), D.L. Gallagher, M.L. Adrian, and R. H. Comfort

The introduction of innovative sensors for plasmaspheric observation aboard
the IMAGE spacecraft has created the opportunity to investigate previous
models and new ideas with respect to refilling. The repopulation of
plas-maspheric densities during post-storm recovery throughout the inner
magnetosphere can be followed using plasmaspheric He+ measurements by the
Extreme Ultraviolet imaging instrument (EUV). The Radio Plasma Imager (RPI)
can often obtain detailed, quantitative field-aligned density distributions
during IMAGE spacecraft transits of the plasmasphere.  Refilling models have
explored a variety of physical processes that lead to preferential
accumulation of plasma at either the magnetic equator or alternatively at
low altitudes. IMAGE observations will be used to examine which refilling
models fit and which do not.  The state of our physical understanding of the
refilling process will be reviewed in that context with the intent to
identify the remaining questions and how they can be resolved.  

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Presentation at the Yosemite Conference of Inner Magnetospheric Interactions,
3 - 6 February 2004, Yosemite, California, USA