Physical Sciences and Mathematics Commons^™

Storm-Time Equatorial Thermospheric Dynamics And Electrodynamics, Luis A. Navarro Dominguez

All Graduate Theses and Dissertations, Spring 1920 to Summer 2023

We present the first complete study of the dynamics of the equatorial upper atmosphere (180-350 km) during periods of strong magnetic activity driven by the Sun, which are generally referred as geomagnetic storms. These storms have the potential to considerably affect satellite-based communications and navigation systems among other severe technological challenges. We used large databases of two of the most important parameters at these altitudes, which are the velocities of the neutral and ionized gas (plasma) referred to as neutral winds and plasma drifts. These measurements were acquired in the Peruvian equatorial region by the Jicamarca radar and by a …