Papitashvili abstract The investigators will develop an electromagnetic model of ionospheric conductivity at high latitudes at both the northern and southern hemispheres for variable interplanetary magnetic field (IMF) conditions. Two existing IMF-dependent models - the Geomagnetic Linear Regression model and the Spherical Harmonic Electric Field model derived from spacecraft data - will be used together with the Spherical Harmonic Field-aligned Current model for variable IMF, which is now under development. The major new element in the proposed research is a statistical model of ionospheric conductivity for variable IMF and solar wind conditions. This model differs from available statistical ionospheric conductivity models and will provide additional insight and better understanding of the ionospheric convection responses on the large-scale interaction of the solar wind with Earth's magnetosphere. The model can also be used for calibration purposes between a variety of satellite-based, radar, and ground magnetometer models of the ionospheric potential and convection. These models are important elements in improving predictive capabilities for space weather.
