Energetic electron precipitation by waves and field-line scattering as seen from low altitude, polar-orbiting satellites

Energetic ion and electron measurements from low-altitude polar-orbiting missions, such as POES, have offered previously a wide range of information on the presence and intensity of equatorial waves and on the presence of field-line curvature scattering and associated magnetospheric topology. Data recently acquired from the dual ELFIN CubeSat mission, offer a much-improved view of magnetospheric scattering of plasma sheet and radiation belt electrons with energies >50keV. Significant contribution to relativistic electron precipitation, especially during active times, comes from electromagnetic ion cyclotron (EMIC) waves, and a combination of EMIC and whistler mode chorus waves acting at separate, but occasionally also at the same longitudes. The persistence of EMIC waves at active times suggests they can be a significant contributor to the overall losses, despite their limited latitudinal extent. Non-linear wave-particle interactions can result in abrupt (sub-second), microburst precipitation preferentially at dawn but also at dusk, with high recurrence rates contributing to the net energy input to the atmosphere at active times. Another significant source is from field-line scattering occurring at and just poleward of the isotropy boundary. This mechanism results in persistent scattering at the nightside under all geomagnetic conditions, with fluxes intensifying with activity level. We examine the relative energy deposition and ionization contribution of these sources with respect to activity level, latitude and local time, compared to those of electrons with energies &nbsp
The 28th IUGG General Assembly (IUGG2023) (Berlin 2023)