Physics of the Upper Atmosphere

Learning Outcomes

Having successfully completed this module you will be able to:

• Explain the origins and relative intensities of prominent features in the optical spectrum of the aurora and airglow.
• Interpret ground-based and space-based observations of the ionosphere and thermosphere.
• Apply knowledge of the production and loss mechanisms of the ionosphere to explain variability on different time scales.
• Describe the temperature and composition altitude profiles of the thermosphere and ionosphere and explain the reasons for their shapes.
• Use basic wave physics to determine the propagation path of radio waves in the ionosphere.
• Apply fluid dynamics theory to describe the transfer of energy and momentum into and through the upper atmosphere by waves.
• Explain how solar photons and energetic particles influence the neutral upper atmosphere and form the ionosphere.

• Overview of the Earth's atmosphere.
• Thermospheric composition and chemistry.
• Impact of solar photons and energetic particles on the upper atmosphere.
• The ionosphere: production, loss, composition and chemistry.
• Electric currents and conductivity in the ionosphere.
• The ionosphere and radio wave propagation.
• Optical emissions from the upper atmosphere: Aurora and airglow.
• Ionosphere-thermosphere coupling.
• Transport, waves and dynamics: Hydrostatics to fluid dynamics.
• Gravity waves, tides and infrasound.
• Observation and measurement of the upper atmosphere from the ground and space.

Approximately 24 lectures will be delivered. Mathematical derivations will be worked through on the board, with images and videos presented on slides. Short interactive quizzes will be incorporated into the lectures at regular intervals as a method of rapid feedback, monitoring, and to assist engagement with the content. The remaining sessions will be used for groupwork activities, practice problems, and revision lectures.

Summative

This is how we’ll formally assess what you have learned in this module.

Referral

This is how we’ll assess you if you don’t meet the criteria to pass this module.

Repeat

An internal repeat is where you take all of your modules again, including any you passed. An external repeat is where you only re-take the modules you failed.