Active Experiments in the Ionosphere at Altitudes of 140–360 km. Optical Observations Results Reanalysis

Abstract—Dynamics of complex plasma structures, that drive precipitation and current systems into the ionosphere, produce a multitude of physical and geophysical effects that present unresolved mysteries in our understanding of the cross-geospace coupling. High-altitude active experiments that produce high-speed plasma injections play a crucial role in solving this outstanding mystery. In particular, the experiments at various ionospheric heights give an insight into the spatial and temporal effects triggered by plasma flows. Such effects include optical radiation in a broad range of wavelength that give an insight into hydrodynamic and physical-chemical effects. Due to early active experiments as “Fluxus” and “North Star” much data had being acquainted, processed and and actively discussed. In the present paper we revision these data, acquired with ground based measurements, a satellite, and geophysical rockets.