MLT Dependence of Relativistic Electron Scattering Into the Drift Loss Cone: Measurements From ELFIN‐L on Board Lomonosov Spacecraft

Abstract

Abstract There have been a number of theories proposed concerning the loss of relativistic electrons from the radiation belts. However, direct observations of loss were not possible on a number of previous missions due to the large field of view of the instruments and often high‐altitude orbits of satellites that did not allow researchers to isolate the precipitating electrons from the stably trapped. We use measurements from the ELFIN‐L suit of instruments flown on Lomonosov spacecraft at LEO orbit, which allows us to distinguish stably trapped from the drift loss cone electrons. The sun‐synchronous orbit of Lomonosov allows us to quantify scattering that occurred into the loss cone on the dawn‐side and the dusk‐side magnetosphere. The loss at MeV energies is observed predominantly on the dawn‐side, consistent with the loss induced by the chorus waves. The companion data publication provides processed measurements.