We are interested in understanding how the dynamics of the mesosphere and ionosphere can be remotely measured using various optical techniques. We use both ground- and space-based observations of these regions, which are difficult to study in situ. Our ground-based observations use a variety of high-speed camera and multi-anode photometers to investigate high-speed optical fluctuations associated with the aurora and sprites. Space-based observations of the aurora and airglow use data from the Global Ultra Violet Imager to establish the average energy and energy flux of incoming auroral precipitation, as well as to determine the plasma density in the equatorial ionosphere. We hope to gain a better understanding of the different time and spatial scales, which may be important in the understanding and ability to model the coupled ionosphere, mesosphere system.

 

Keywords:

Aurora; Wave particle interaction; Optical observations; Sprites; Ionosphere; High speed; Energy; Mesosphere; Dynamics;

Citizenship:  Open to U.S. citizens

Level:  Open to Postdoctoral and Senior applicants