Imaging of ionospheric density structures and plasma drifts using artificial illumination by high-power radio waves

Artificial aurora from energetic electron fluxes may be generated by powerful radio waves beamed into the ionosphere. This radio induced aurora (RIA) provides optical diagnostics for measurements of field aligned irregularities, artificial plasma cavities, and plasma drifts in the E and F layer ionosphere. High-power radio waves coupled with low-light-level optical sensors provide unique measurements of the upper atmosphere.