研究目的

Numerical simulations of disturbances in the ionospheric electron temperature and density, which are caused by ultra-short super-powerful radio pulses propagating through the atmosphere.

研究成果

1. Even when τ = 1 ns and P = 1 GW, the ultra-short radio pulse heats up electrons in the 30 – 60 km altitude range substantially. 2. The radio pulse energy of 1–10 J is sufficient for heating the lower ionosphere. 3. The electric breakdown of the atmosphere in the 30 – 60 km altitude range begins at Pmin = 0.3 – 1.3 GW and f ～ 10 GHz. As the frequency decreases to 1 GHz, Pmin increases to 1 – 30 GW. 4. The radio pulse energy of 1–102 J is sufficient for an electric breakdown of the atmosphere. 5. In order to estimate the Popt in the 30 – 60 km altitude range, Pmin should be increased by a factor of 36 – 64 times.

研究不足

The study is based on numerical simulations and does not account for all possible atmospheric and ionospheric conditions. The simplified physics and chemistry model may not capture all relevant processes.