A Numerical Investigation of Equatorial Electrojet During the Total Solar Eclipse on 29 March 2006

Abstract

Due to the relative location of the Sun, Earth, and Moon, a common and special phenomenon occurs, termed a solar eclipse. During the solar eclipse, the solar radiation is greatly obscured, therefore, a series of disturbances could be imposed into the ionosphere. Using electron density observations from the Challenging Minisatellite Payload satellite, the equatorial electrojet (EEJ) measurements from the ground station, and simulations from the Thermosphere Ionosphere Electrodynamic General Circulation Model, this work explored the behaviors of EEJ during the total solar eclipse on 29 March 2006. The path of this solar eclipse goes across the dip equator, providing an opportunity for us to explore the perturbations of EEJ. It is found that the observed EEJ at the MBO station is reduced, with a maximum and average percentage of 38.85% and 19.43%, respectively. The perturbations of EEJ are not only established that are directly affected by the solar eclipse but also after the solar eclipse ends. Local Cowling conductivity associated with E-region electron density is greatly decreased when the solar eclipse occurs. The zonal electric field established by the E-region wind might play a key role in the regulation of EEJ in both eclipse and post-eclipse phases.