f Computer Simulations Of Rayleigh-Taylor Instability In Ionospheric Plasmas

The generalized Rayleigh-Taylor instability due to the<br>combined destabilizing effects of the gravity, ambient<br>electric and magnetic fields and neutral wind is the<br>physical mechanism that drives the growth of equatorial<br>and low-latitude spread-F, which leads to the<br>formation of plasma bubbles – depleted density irregularities<br>in the ionosphere [1]. Radio waves from<br>satellites during their propagation through these ionospheric<br>irregularities are scattered causing scintillation<br>of the radio signals received on the ground. The<br>amplitude and phase scintillations of the GPS (Global<br>Positioning System) signals are a useful tool for remote<br>sensing of the ionospheric irregularities. Hence,<br>the theoretical and experimental studies of the Rayleigh-<br>Taylor instability and its implications on equatorial<br>and low-latitude spread-F are important for<br>modern satellite-based telecommunications systems.<br>The initial conditions which lead to an event of<br>spread-F depend in a complex way on the dynamical<br>state of the ionosphere and the neutral atmosphere<br>and on the dynamical patterns of gravity waves in the<br>upper atmosphere.