K-vector determination of whistler mode signals by using amplitude data obtained by a spacecraft borne instrument

A straightforward method for determination of k-vector (wave normal) direction of a whistler mode signal observed onboard spacecraft consists in measuring three components of the wave magnetic field with their instantaneous amplitudes and phases. In that method, one needs to send by telemetry a total wave form of a signal, which requires much larger bandwidth than for sending amplitudes only. The present study develops another method of determination of the wave normal direction based only on the amplitude data; the method is checked using Omega signal observations by the Akebono satellite. It should, however, be noted that the sense of k-vector is not determined by this proposed method.<
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