Middle atmospheric electrodynamics - Status and future

Abstract

Recent theoretical and observational studies of middle atmosphere electrodynamics are reviewed. Attention is given to observations of large electric fields in the mesosphere and stratosphere which suggest magnitudes of about one volt per sq m. Recommendations are offered with respect to areas of future study, with emphasis on studies of the morphology of large electric fields, and their relationship with external influences such as magnetospheric electric fields and tropospheric thunderstorms.