Physics and Astronomy Space Plasma Seminar - Joshua Semeter, Boston University

Title: "On the Structure and Motion of Auroras"

October 1, 2013
3:30 pm - 5:00 pm
Location
Wilder 111
Sponsored by
Physics & Astronomy Department
Audience
Public
More information
Tressena Manning
603-646-2854

Abstract:  The optical aurora is among the oldest and most valued diagnostics in space plasma physics, and yet the tools needed to access the full information in this signal are still being created.  Two basic realities must be born in mind when interpreting an auroral image in the context of underlying physical drivers.   First, a camera provides a perspective projection, morphology in physical coordinates is only obtained through the application of inverse theory.   Second, the information in the dimensions parallel and perpendicular to the magnetic field is fundamentally different — the former being governed by the physics of particle penetration, and the latter providing a projection of acceleration region dynamics.   This tutorial talk will address the nuanced problem of auroral analysis and interpretation with respect to prominent models of magnetosphere-ionosphere coupling.

Location
Wilder 111
Sponsored by
Physics & Astronomy Department
Audience
Public
More information
Tressena Manning
603-646-2854