Langmuir Probe and Waves Instrument

The Langmuir Probe and Waves (LPW) instrument is part of the Particles and Fields (P and F) Package and determines ionospheric properties, wave heating of the upper atmosphere, and solar EUV input to the atmosphere.

Goals:

• Measure the in situ electron density and electron temperature from the ionospheric peak up to the nominal ionopause location. It will also measure the electric field wave power important for ion heating
• Characterize the basic state of the ionosphere—its global structure, variability, and thermal properties
• Determine the effects of solar wind generated plasma waves and auroral precipitation on ionosphere heating and relationship to plasma escape
• Determine the electron temperatures required for deriving ion recombination rates and ionospheric chemistry
• Identify the ionopause and detached, escaping ionosphere clouds