Snapshots of high-latitude electrodynamics using Viking and DMSP/F7 observations

Simultaneous observations by the Viking and the DMSP/F7 satellites have been used in a new method to obtain snapshot pictures of the auroral electrodynamics. In particular, an 'instantaneous' global equipotential (or convection) pattern is calculated using field-aligned current and conductivity distributions that are qualitatively consistent with the Viking auroral imager data and quantitatively consistent with magnetic field and particle data from the two satellites. This convection pattern which is of the normal two-cell type, with a weak dusk cell and a strong, elongated crescent-shaped dawn cell (consistent with positive IMF By) agrees well with the Viking electric field data. The model and the observed potential profiles agree nicely along the entire Viking orbit except for two intervals above acceleration regions where deviations are to be expected (due to parallel electric fields). These regions are characterized by: U-shaped potential minima, upward field-aligned currents, upgoing ion beams and relatively intense AKR. The model results are thus consistent with the Viking observations not only on a global scale but also on the scale size of the auroral acceleration regions. The corresponding convection in the magnetosphere is illustrated by a simple projection of the deduced two-cell convection pattern to the equatorial plane. From this the instantaneous location of the plasmapause is inferred. (authors)