Abstract
We analyze optical data of twenty sprites and three halos observed by the array photometer which is a scientific instrument of the ISUAL payload on the FORMOSAT-2 satellite. The altitude distribution of electric field is derived from the ratio of blue to red emission intensity by assuming all emissions are due to the electron impact excitation of nitrogen molecules. We find a clear transition at ∼75 km altitude from the upper-diffuse to lower-streamer region. Estimated electric field intensities in the diffuse region are 0.5-0.7 Ek, which support the theoretical expectation that their optical emissions could be produced without significant ionization. On the other hand, those in the streamer region are 1-2 Ek which is a few times less than predicted fields in the streamer head. We suggest that this discrepancy is due to the long-lasting components such as the lower portions of the upward branches and bead structures.
Original language | English |
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Article number | L17803 |
Journal | Geophysical Research Letters |
Volume | 33 |
Issue number | 17 |
DOIs | |
Publication status | Published - 2006 Sep 1 |
All Science Journal Classification (ASJC) codes
- Geophysics
- Earth and Planetary Sciences(all)