Oxygen Ion Cyclotron Waves in the Outer Magnetosphere

Abstract:

Due to their strong interaction with the plasma particles, ion cyclotron (IC)
waves play a major role in the particle energization and loss, and in the
general energy flow throughout the terrestrial magnetosphere. Their excitation
requires the presence of a cold ion population combined with an anisotropic
energetic population. These conditions are most frequently met in the vicinity
of the plasmapause, where both energetic particles from the radiation belts and
cold plasma are present. Recent studies showed that IC waves are also common
inside and close to plasmaspheric plumes. These plumes can have a significant
radial extension, sometimes up to the magnetopause. However, up to date only
waves in the H+ and He+ branches have been observed in relation with the
plasmaspheric plumes. Here we analyse the presence of O+ IC waves in the outer
magnetosphere and their relation with the plasmaspheric plumes.