EAGER: Developing the Wave Distribution Function Method for RBSP Wave Data Analysis

Plasma waves are common in the space environment around Earth and influence the behavior of energetic particles that can affect satellites and other technologies. Current methods often assume that these waves travel in a single direction, but observations show that many waves move in multiple directions and arise from different physical processes. This work will develop new computational methods to determine the full range of directions in which plasma waves propagate. Improving these measurements will advance understanding of space weather and help improve models used to protect satellites, astronauts, and other space-based technologies. This project will develop the methodology needed to extract the wave normal angle distribution from 6-component electromagnetic wave data of the Van Allen Probes (RBSP) satellite. Current techniques assume a single plane wave propagation model, limiting our ability to resolve complex wave distributions. However, in reality, it is a common case that multiple overlapping plane waves arrive from various directions and sources, and are present simultaneously at a given satellite location, but this cannot be detected with current methods. To address this limitation, the Wave Distribution Function (WDF) method will be developed and implemented. The project will involve the design and validation of a new WDF analysis code and its application to the extensive RBSP wave dataset, which offers a unique opportunity to advance our understanding of magnetospheric wave dynamics. A critical component of this effort will be calibrating and refining the electric field wave data to ensure precise alignment (in amplitude and phase) with the magnetic field measurements. The work has the potential to significantly advance the field of space plasma wave analysis by enabling the extraction of detailed wave normal distributions from the entire Van Allen probes wave dataset. By improving the ability to characterize wave populations and their sources, this project will contribute to better space weather forecasting and mitigation strategies. These advancements will support national and international efforts to enhance space situational awareness, ensuring the safety of current and future space missions. This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria. NSF Award ID: 2529754 | Program: 01002627DB NSF RESEARCH & RELATED ACTIVIT | Principal Investigator: Jacob Bortnik | Institution: University of California-Los Angeles, LOS ANGELES, CA | Award Amount: $299,614 View on NSF Award Search: https://www.nsf.gov/awardsearch/show-award/?AWD_ID=2529754 View on Research.gov: https://www.research.gov/awardapi-service/v1/awards/2529754.html