Mid-latitude plasma and electric field measurements during space weather month, September 1999

Abstract

Using data collected during the September 1999 combined ionospheric campaign (CIC), we examine the effects of moderate geomagnetic activity on low and mid-latitudes. Perturbations in the zonal electric field, measured at both Jicamarca and Arecibo, are the most striking aspect of this data. These eastward electric fields resulted in a poleward advection of the Appleton anomaly to mid-latitudes, where it was observed as a gradient in the nighttime electron density, as measured by the Arecibo incoherent scatter radar. This gradient was severe enough that it was observable in airglow measurements at 630.0 and . To put this data into context, we also examine the worldwide conditions during this time period and find evidence for several substorms, penetrating electric fields, and disturbance dynamo electric fields.