HR: 1400h
AN: SA33A-06    [Abstracts]
TI: In-situ composition data: First results from the mass spectrometer on the TacSat-2 satellite
AU: * Ballenthin, J O
EM: john.ballenthin@hanscom.af.mil
AF: AFRL/VSBXT, 29 Randolph Rd, Hanscom AFB, MA 01731, United States
AU: Wise, J O
EM: john.wise@hanscom.af.mil
AF: AFRL/VSBXT, 29 Randolph Rd, Hanscom AFB, MA 01731, United States
AU: Marcos, F A
EM: frank.marcos@hanscom.af.mil
AF: AFRL/VSBXT, 29 Randolph Rd, Hanscom AFB, MA 01731, United States
AB: We present first measurements from the Atmospheric Density Mass Spectrometer (ADMS) carried on the TacSat- 2 satellite. The satellite is in a 40 degree inclination, near-circular 410 km altitude orbit. ADMS provides the first in- situ composition data in over 25 years. The sensor is described briefly. This paper presents sensor and orbital operations and the technique used to generate neutral composition and density data. Results of comparison of data to the NRLMSIS and Jacchia-Bowman 2006 empirical models and to total mass densities derived from satellite drag are given for time periods of low geomagnetic activity and low solar flux conditions. Also discussed are plans for coordinating analysis with ground-based and other satellite measurements including GUVI, CHAMP and GRACE.
DE: 0355 Thermosphere: composition and chemistry
DE: 3369 Thermospheric dynamics (0358)
DE: 3394 Instruments and techniques
DE: 7969 Satellite drag (1241)
DE: 7974 Solar effects
SC: SPA-Aeronomy [SA]
MN: 2007 Joint Assembly