A Rocket Borne Experiment to Measure Plasma Densities in the D-Region

Each of the two B IV payloads (Nike Apache) flown in connection with the reported investigation contained an electrostatic probe and an instrument utilizing a radio wave propagation method. The results provided by the two instruments supplement each other and make it possible to obtain very accurate absolute values regarding the electron density. The electron density profile derived from the wave propagation experiment during a flight on January 4, 1976, is presented in a graph, taking into account an altitude range from 70 to 130 km. Another graph shows the density profile of positive ions normalized to the electron density derived from the wave propagation experiment for a flight on January 21, 1976. After an evaluation of the results of the investigation, it is concluded that the employed combination of the two instruments provides an ideal approach for measurements in the D and E-region.