This project will utilize kinetic simulations to model wave turbulence in the auroral ionosphere. The simulations are motivated by high resolution observations from the Freja and FAST satellites, as well as by sounding rockets. Emphasis will be placed on the nonlinear evolution and saturation of two of the most commonly occurring wave modes: lower-hybrid waves and Langmuir waves. The simulations and the accompanying theoretical analysis will treat all phases of the evolution and saturation of the turbulent waves. To accomplish these goals, the simulations will be built upon existing computer codes developed under prior NSF support.
