Collaborative Research: Investigation of Deep Polar Cap Dynamics Using an Autonomous Instrument Network

The deep polar cap is unique in that it contains "open" magnetic field lines connecting directly to the interplanetary magnetic field (IMF). These provide a direct pathway for solar wind energy into the ionosphere and upper atmosphere. Important on large scales is the spatial extent of the polar cap, controlled by ionospheric convection and demarcated by the OCB. Observations of that boundary serve the important role of validating magnetic field models. In addition, ULF waves in the polar cap may be related to direct penetration of solar wind. Ionospheric density enhancement, tongue of ionization (TOI), and irregularities causing RF signal scintillations in the polar cap are very important and yet underexplored areas of studies. Motivated by the compelling science in the underexplored polar region, we propose to investigate M-I coupling processes, ionospheric irregularities inside the polar cap and their space weather impacts by establishing a new ground-based network that will be deployed in the Antarctic polar cap region. The goal of this investigation is to establish a spatially extensive ground-based observational record of coupled Magnetosphere-Ionosphere (M-I) dynamics in the deep polar cap. This is to be achieved using three new Autonomous Geophysical Observatories (AGOs) along the Jang Bogo – Dome C supply route (deployment and maintenance paid for by Korea Polar Research Institute – KOPRI).