OMMBV

Orthogonal vector basis and field-line mapping for multipole magnetic fields, optimized for ionospheric plasma dynamics and electric field calculations.

The motion of plasma in the ionosphere is the result of forcing from neutral winds, electric fields, as well as the orientation of those fields and forces relative to the background magnetic field. OMMBV (Orthogonal Multipole Magnetic Basis Vectors) calculates directions (unit vectors) based upon the geomagnetic field that are optimized for understanding the movement of plasma, the mapping of electric fields, and coupling with the neutral atmosphere. This system is the first to remain orthogonal for multipole magnetic fields as well as when including a geodetic reference surface (Earth). OMMBV also includes methods for scaling ion drifts and electric fields at one location to any other location along the same field line, typically to either the magnetic footpoint or to the magnetic equator. The software is used by NASA's ICON Explorer Mission, NOAA/NSPO COSMIC-2 constellation, and is being incorporated into C/NOFS satellite analysis routines.