loading page

Eclipse-Induced Changes to Topside Ion Composition and Interhemispheric Ion Flows in the August 2017 Solar Eclipse: Swarm-E (e-POP) Observations
  • +3
  • Andrew Yau,
  • Victoria Foss,
  • Andrew Howarth,
  • Gareth Perry,
  • Chris Watson,
  • Joseph Huba
Andrew Yau
University of Calgary

Corresponding Author:yau@ucalgary.ca

Author Profile
Victoria Foss
University of Calgary
Author Profile
Andrew Howarth
University of Calgary
Author Profile
Gareth Perry
University of Calgary
Author Profile
Chris Watson
University of New Brunswick
Author Profile
Joseph Huba
US Naval Research Lab
Author Profile

Abstract

We present in-situ ion composition and velocity measurements from the Enhanced Polar Outflow Probe during the August 2017 solar eclipse, which crossed the path of totality at ~640 km altitude within 10 minutes of totality passing. These measurements reveal two distinct H+ ion populations, and show a ~40% decrease in topside plasma density, a similar drop in upward but not downward H+ ion flux, and a downward O+ ion velocity of ~100 m/s. These features are directly linked to changes in the H+/O+ composition and field-aligned or interhemispheric light ion flow, and reduction in the negative spacecraft potential. These observed features were absent on the preceding, non-eclipse days, and corroborate the reduction in F-region plasma density and topside Total Electron Content (TEC) observed by the Global Position System (GPS) receivers onboard. They are attributed to the temporary reduction of photoionization in the eclipsed F-region.