Evidence for influence of the solar wind variations on atmospheric temperature in the southern polar region

• Published in: Journal of atmospheric and solar-terrestrial physics 2003-05, Vol.65 (8), p.947-956
• Main Authors: Troshichev, O.A., Egorova, L.V., Vovk, V.Ya
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Atmospheric temperature; Interplanetary electric field; Interplanetary magnetic field; Katabatic system of circulation; Pressure and winds
• ISSN: 1364-6826; 1879-1824
• DOI: 10.1016/S1364-6826(03)00112-3

Detailed analysis of meteorological and aerological data from Vostok station (Antarctica) for 1978–1992 made it possible to conclude that dramatic changes of the troposphere temperature, observed in the southern polar region, are related to the variations of the interplanetary magnetic field (IMF). The warming is observed at ground level and cooling at h>10 km if the IMF vertical component decreases (Δ B Z 10 km ) is observed for Δ B Z >0. There is a linear relationship between the value of change in the interplanetary electric field (Δ E SW) and ground temperature at Vostok station: the larger is the leap in the E SW the stronger is the temperature deviation. The effect reaches maximum within 1 day and is damped equally quickly. The tropospheric pressure and horizontal winds respond to the E SW fluctuations as well. It is suggested that the interplanetary electric field affects the katabatic system of atmospheric circulation typical of the ice dome in winter Antarctic.