Matthew R. Igel
NOAA’s Space Weather Prediction Center

Mentor: Jennifer Gannon

 

Title:  Off Equatorial Analysis of Several Commonly Used Magnetic Field Models

 

Abstract:

Models of Earth’s magnetic field are crucial to current and future research of near space phenomenon.  In this study, off-equatorial shape and accuracy, as measured by prediction efficiency, of several models included in the ONERA-DESP library are analyzed.  Analysis is binned by Geomagnetic Equatorial Index (DST) based substorm periods, geomagnetic activity index (Kp), and by geomagnetic latitude.  Results confirm previous equatorial performance problems and illuminate new areas of stretching and compression of field lines.  Cluster and Polar satellite magnetometer measurements are compared to model outputs of scalar magnetic fields.  Bin results for satellite comparisons show poor model performance during peak storm times and early recovery, during high Kp periods (Kp ≥ 4), and at high latitudes (>60°).  3 dimensional magnetic field line plots confirm decreasing performance with increasing geomagnetic activity.  Modeled drift shells are also analyzed.  Suggestions for future model use are provided.