Ionospheric outflow: From fundamental theory to modern modeling frameworks

Kimm, Soo Min

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https://hdl.handle.net/2142/129196 Copy

Description

Title

Ionospheric outflow: From fundamental theory to modern modeling frameworks

Author(s)

Kimm, Soo Min

Issue Date

2025-04-16

Director of Research (if dissertation) or Advisor (if thesis)

Ilie, Raluca

Department of Study

Electrical & Computer Eng

Discipline

Electrical & Computer Engineering

Degree Granting Institution

University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign

Degree Name

M.S.

Degree Level

Thesis

Keyword(s)

Ionosphere

Abstract

The interaction between Earth and its surrounding space environment involves a continuous exchange of plasma, primarily characterized by the outflow of charged particles from the ionosphere. The thesis presents a comprehensive explanation of the ionosphere, detailing its theoretical foundations, mechanisms, and historical advancement in modeling. Starting with an overview of Earth’s ionosphere and magnetosphere, the study examines the dynamics of ionospheric plasma and its interaction with solar and geomagnetic activities. Special emphasis is placed on the processes facilitating ion escape, including ambipolar electric fields, centrifugal forces, and wave particle interactions. The work further delves into classical and non-classical polar wind models, comparing hydrodynamic, kinetic, and generalized transport approaches, each offering unique perspectives on ion behavior at varying altitudes and conditions. The significance of satellite missions like Cluster and THEMIS is highlighted, underscoring their contributions to high-resolution data collection that has refined space weather simulations. Despite advancements, the complexity of ionospheric outflow continues to present challenges, necessitating enhanced predictive models for improved understanding and forecasting. This thesis aims to contribute to this effort by synthesizing existing research and proposing areas for future investigation.

Graduation Semester

2025-05

Type of Resource

Thesis

Handle URL

https://hdl.handle.net/2142/129196

Copyright and License Information

Copyright 2025 Soo Min Kimm

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