Swarm-E observations of natural and stimulated emissions in the topside ionosphere

Abstract

Swarm-E (formerly CASSIOPE Enhanced Polar Outflow Probe, e-POP) was launched in September 2013 into an elliptical polar orbit (325–1500 km, 81° inclination), and is currently in its sixth year of operation (and second year of operation as an integral part of the Swarm constellation). One of its science thrusts is to investigate the microphysics of radio-wave propagation and wave-plasma interaction processes in the topside ionosphere [1], using its trio of radio science instruments to perform a variety of unique active experiments and passive observations in coordination with ground facilities and other spacecraft.