The Secondary Proton Radiation Belt: Origin and Dynamics

At the interface between the upper atmosphere and the inner radiation, there exists a secondary radiation belt consisting mainly of energetic ions. The time history of its proton component was traced in the equatorial region for 3 consequent years. During most of this period a flux of -1.2 cm·2s·1s(1 was detected in the L range 1.05-1.15. A few surprisingly deep and rapid flux decreases and abrupt flux increases were also observed. Possible reasons for these unexpected phenomena are discussed.