Experimental modeling of atmospheric discharge phenomena and charged dust particle interactions

Abstract

The upper atmosphere, comprising the mesosphere and thermosphere, is intricately influenced by various atmospheric and magnetospheric impacts. Various atmospheric waves excited in the troposphere can propagate into the mesosphere-thermosphere (M-T) region, altering its dynamics. Additionally, large-scale disturbances in the middle atmosphere, such as sudden stratospheric warming and geomagnetic disturbances induced by solar activity, affect the upper atmosphere. To better understand these complex processes, observations from multiple platforms and instruments, along with modeling studies, are necessary. This study presents experimental investigations into the electromagnetic signatures generated by atmospheric discharge conditions, including breakdown events and interactions of charged dust particles. A vacuum chamber was used to simulate upper atmospheric conditions. An electromagnetic signal analyzer (EMA) registered signals generated from the atmospheric discharge and the electromagnetic signature of charged dust particles. The results of the experimental investigations revealed distinctive electromagnetic processes occurring during breakdown events and charged particle interactions within Earth’s atmosphere. Signals recorded by the electromagnetic signal analyzer provided valuable insights into the characteristics of atmospheric discharge conditions and the behavior of charged dust particles. The findings contribute to our understanding of the complex interactions in the upper atmosphere. Further analysis of the results highlights the significance of the atmospheric discharge, electromagnetic processes, and dust particle interactions in shaping the dynamics of this region. The experimental approach presented in this study offers a valuable tool for studying atmospheric processes and their implications for space weather dynamics.