VLF Transmitters and Lightning‐Generated Whistlers: 1. Modeling Waves From Source to Space
M. Starks, J. M. Albert, A. G. Ling, Steven M. O’Malley, R. A. Quinn
Abstract
Abstract Waves from nine major ground‐based very low frequency (VLF) transmitters are modeled from their sources to 660 km altitude with a full‐wave code, which reliably treats transionospheric attenuation, and then ray‐and‐power traced throughout the plasmasphere. Lightning‐generated whistlers, previously modeled at 660 km altitude, are ray‐and‐power traced throughout the plasmasphere as well. The resulting profiles of electric and magnetic fields, including wave normal angles, are organized by value. Two versions of a realistic plasmaspheric density model are used, and ducted as well as nonducted propagation are treated. Results are compared to empirical models based on near‐equatorial measurements by Van Allen Probes. A companion paper will evaluate resonant interactions of these waves with radiation belt electrons.