Interpreting accelerated ion dynamics in the wave-particle interaction regime leading to pressure cooker scenario

In this work, measurements from the VISIONS (VISualizing Ion Outflow via Neutral Atom Imaging during a Substorm-2013) sounding rocket are presented and discussed. The data were collected during an active auroral event, revealing prominent signatures of transversely accelerated ions.

The measurements were obtained using the onboard Electrostatic Ion Analyzer (EIA) and FIELDS instrument, along with other remote sensing instruments onboard the payload and ground-based observations. These additional instruments enabled simultaneous and precise ion profile measurements.

Analysis of the data revealed energized (accelerated) ions exceeding their typical energy levels, strongly indicating wave heating effects. Further examination of the total energy gain, corresponding heating rate, and the interaction timescale for this energization supports the pressure cooker acceleration scenario proposed by Gorney et al., 1985. The findings are consistent with the observed measurement signatures.