Ih. Cairns et Gp. Zank, First theoretical predictions for dynamic spectra of the outer heliospheric radio emissions, GEOPHYS R L, 26(16), 1999, pp. 2605-2608
First theoretical predictions for dynamic spectra of radio emissions from t
he outer heliosphere are presented, based on a simple emission model and th
e global plasma density predicted by plasma-neutral fluid simulations. Emis
sion from the heliopause density ramp is not organized into slow-drifting r
adiation consistent with the observed transient emissions, contrary to a wi
dely accepted model. However, the dynamic spectra show emissions from the h
eliosheath beyond the heliopause reminiscent of the observed 2 kHz componen
t. The results suggest that new emissions may be observed as spacecraft mov
e beyond the termination shock and also place constraints on the generation
processes and global plasma environment. Subject to caveats on the models
used, the analysis shows that basic deficiencies exist in our understanding
of the observed emissions.