Millisecond Polarized Pulses in Decametre-Wave Radiation from Jupiter and Sun

Abstract

A new approach is suggested to the problem of the theory of Jovian decametric radiation and physical conditions at the point of origin. This depends upon a comparison of the characteristics of fast pulse decametre-wave radio emission from both Jupiter and the Sun and invokes the deductive procedure which Sagan (1971) has called ‘Propositional Calculus’.Fast polarized pulses in radiation from Jupiter and the Sun have been studied at fixed frequencies in the range 18 to 26 MHz with time resolutions from one to five msec; a number of similarities between the pulses from both sources have been noted. A comparison of some of the pulse characteristics is being made in order to decide whether or not they are sufficiently alike to be regarded as having a common mechanism of origin at both Jupiter and the Sun. From this ‘decision’ it is proposed to establish boundary conditions for theoretical study. Fast pulses in the Jupiter radiation are generally supposed to be a source phenomenon although their actual mechanism is not understood. The reasons for this are to some extent inferred rather than proven and so, to check the possible (if unlikely) role of the interplanetary medium, observations are also being made using the large 26 MHz array at the University of Florida to search for possible fast pulses in the radiation from the more distant source Taurus A.