Geomagnetic storm simulation with a coupled Magnetosphere–Ionosphere–Thermosphere model

Abstract

We present the first global, self-consistent, fully electrically coupled magneto- sphere–ionosphere–thermosphere model, based on the UCLA magnetosphere–ionosphere model and the NOAA Coupled Thermosphere Ionosphere Model (CTIM). Initial results from this coupled model for the January 10, 1997 geomagnetic storm event are encouraging. In particular, the model produces a much more realistic electrodynamic and ionospheric response as compared with the previous magnetosphere model that relied on parameterizations for the ionospheric conductance. This is attributed to the much more realistic conductance calculations provided by CTIM. Like in previous studies with the magnetosphere model, the cross-polar-cap potential is too high. Examining the cause will require further investigation.