The role of superthermal electrons in high latitude ionospheric outflows

Abstract:

It is well accepted that the ionosphere is a critical source of plasma for the magnetosphere, providing O+, H+, and He+ which can have wide ranging consequences for the space environment system. Changing ion composition affects magnetic reconnection in the magnetosphere, the ring current, and the wave environment which is important for high energy radiation belt electrons. Of the myriad of mechanisms that are important in determining the ionospheric outflow solution at high latitudes, we focus on the role of superthermal electron populations. It has been demonstrated in multiple studies that even small concentrations of superthermal electrons can have a dramatic effect on the outflow solution. In this presentation, we present simulation results using our Polar Wind Outflow Model (PWOM) and our SuperThermal Electron Transport (STET) code. We describe recent results on superthermal electrons role in defining the quiet time solar wind solution with comparisons to observations. We also discuss preliminary results that combine the PWOM and STET codes for a more comprehensive treatment of the impact of superthermal electrons.