Abstract

The Global-scale observation of limb and disk mission observed an extra electron density (Ne) peak after sunset at approximately 30 degrees S near 40 degrees W on 4 November 2019, which is poleward and immediately next to the southern equatorial ionization anomaly (EIA) crest. This Ne peak is dif... Show moreThe Global-scale observation of limb and disk mission observed an extra electron density (Ne) peak after sunset at approximately 30 degrees S near 40 degrees W on 4 November 2019, which is poleward and immediately next to the southern equatorial ionization anomaly (EIA) crest. This Ne peak is different from previously reported mid-latitude peaks that occur at all local times. The Whole Atmosphere Community Climate Model-eXtended captures this phenomenon. Model diagnostic analysis reveals that the decrease of Ne and hmF2 between 15 degrees and 25 degrees S makes Ne near 30 degrees S appear as an extra density peak relative to the southern EIA crest. Transport by poleward meridional wind decreases Ne between 15 degrees and 25 degrees S. Moreover, the upward E x B drifts due to pre-reversal enhancement lift the plasma between the dip equator and 15 degrees S but do not affect Ne much between 15 degrees and 25 degrees S with a low drift speed. Comparison with days without the extra peak shows the importance of E x B drift latitudinal variations on the extra peak formation. This study provides new insights into the dynamic variability of the nighttime ionosphere. Show less