Dynamic responses of ionosphere and plasmasphere during 2024 October super storm by GITM-SAMI3

We present a comprehensive modeling investigation of ionospheric density variations and plasmasphere dynamics during the October 2024 super storm using the one-way coupled GITM-SAMI3 model driven by the Space Weather Modeling Framework (SWMF) Geospace suite or empirical models. This second strongest event in solar cycle 25 provides an excellent case study opportunity for examining the complex interplay between ionospheric density variation processes, thermospheric composition change and plasmasphere refilling/depletion mechanisms.
Our analysis focuses on the evolution of multi-scale ionospheric density structures, including storm-enhanced density (SED), ionospheric negative storm, and associated plasmaspheric plume dynamics throughout the storm's multiple phases. Preliminary results reveal complex temporal and spatial variations in ionospheric density pattern, with significant interhemispheric asymmetries driven by neutral wind patterns, thermospheric composition changes and IMF By. The plasmasphere exhibits dramatic erosion to ~2 RE during the storm's main phase, accompanied by the development of prominent plumes.
This study advances our understanding of the physics of storm-time ionosphere-plasmasphere coupling and demonstrates the capabilities of advanced modeling framework for space weather specification and prediction.