Far-Ultraviolet Auroral Spectra

Further studies of the spectral data obtained in the February 1960 rocket experiment [ Ann. Geophys.17, 109 ( 1961)] have confirmed much of the preliminary analysis. New bands of the Lyman–Birge–Hopfield system in the 1700–2200 Å region have been identified. More precise wavelength determinations have been made, and previously indicated bands of N_2 have been more positively identified. The Lyman α line of hydrogen is just detectable. The intensity distribution among the various bands during weak auroral conditions is shown to differ markedly from more intense displays. Laboratory data obtained from a microwave discharge in very pure N_2 show good correlation with some features of the rocket spectra.