An Efficient 3-D FDTD Model of Electromagnetic Wave Propagation in Magnetized Plasma

Modeling electromagnetic wave propagation in the upper atmosphere is important for space weather effects, satellite communications ionospheric modification experiments, and many other applications. We propose a new methodology for solving and incorporating the current equation into the finite-difference time-domain (FDTD) form of Maxwell's equations for modeling electromagnetic wave propagation in magnetized plasma. This approach employs a version of Boris's algorithm applied to particle-in-cell plasma computational models. There are four primary advantages of this new method over previously developed three-dimensional FDTD models of electromagnetic wave propagation in magnetized plasma. Specifically, it: 1) requires less memory; 2) is more than 50% faster; 3) is easier to implement; and 4) permits the use of two different time step increments when solving the current equation versus Maxwell's equations that is useful for modeling high collisional regimes. The new algorithm is faster because it solves all the equations explicitly and there is no need to solve complicated matrix equations. Modeling of higher altitude ranges and higher frequency electromagnetic waves is much more feasible using this new method. Results of the new FDTD magnetized plasma model are provided and validated.