Do the Antennas of DEMETER Spacecraft Detect Dust Impacts?

• Published in: Journal of geophysical research. Space physics Vol. 130; no. 5
• Main Authors: Ijaz, Samia, Vaverka, Jakub, Šafránková, Jana, Němeček, Zdeněk
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: 01.05.2025
• Subjects: Earth; interplanetary dust; interstellar dust; plasma clouds
• ISSN: 2169-9380; 2169-9402; 2169-9402
• DOI: 10.1029/2024JA033407

This study investigates pulses detected by the electric field instrument, ICE (Instrument Champ Electrique) onboard the DEMETER spacecraft. Using an automated identification algorithm, we identified 1,000 short pulses recorded in 2005 and 2010. The spatial distribution of these signals, primarily localized over South America and near the South Atlantic Anomaly (SAA), contradicts the initial assumption that they are generated by dust impacts. The absence of temporal and seasonal variations eliminates other potential sources, such as earthquakes and lightning. Our analysis suggests that energetic electrons are the most plausible explanation for these pulses, supported by the strong spatial correlation between the detected electric field spikes and high‐energy electron fluxes observed by the IDP (Instrument for the Detection of Particle) instrument onboard DEMETER. The equal distribution of pulse polarities and the detection of similar pulses in magnetic field observations further support this conclusion. These findings highlight the importance of carefully evaluating and interpreting pulses attributed to dust impacts, contributing to more accurate interpretations and a better understanding of dust impact signals in various space environments. Key Points Observations of the low‐Earth orbiting DEMETER spacecraft to investigate pulses resembling dust impact signals Identification of possible sources of signal misinterpretation High‐energy electron fluxes strongly correlate with the detected electric field events, emphasizing the need for careful evaluation