Modification of Martian Ionosphere

To partially meet the communication requirements in Mars, low-frequency ground-to-ground communication is likely to be used in the future and hence, it is desirable to increase electron density in the Martian ionosphere. As a convenient means to this, we have proposed and explored the production of high electron density regions in the Martian atmosphere in daytime by suspension of low work function dust, specifically Cs-coated bronze in the atmosphere. Equations of the kinetics of the dusty air in sunlight have been introduced and a numerical estimate of the daytime electron density at 60-100 km heights has been obtained as a function of the dust parameters. Photoelectric emission from dust and accretion of electrons and ions on dust particles play the key role in getting the desired electron density at high altitudes (60-100 km). A discussion of the numerical results has been given with conclusions.