Computing uncertainties in ionosphere‐airglow models: I. Electron flux and species production uncertainties for Mars

摘要: [1] The ionization and excitation of atoms molecules in the upper atmospheres Earth planets are computed by a number physical models. From these calculations, quantities measurable dedicated satellite experiments such as airglow electron fluxes can be derived. It is then possible to compare model observation derive more fundamental properties atmospheres, for example, density function altitude. To ensure accuracy retrieval techniques, it important have an estimation uncertainty models ways account uncertainties. The complexity kinetic computing secondary production excited state species (including ions) makes difficult evaluation, studies usually neglect or underestimate it. We present here Monte-Carlo approach computation As we studied several aspects uncertainties atmosphere Mars, including flux main ion species. Our simulations show importance improving solar models, especially on energy binning photon impact cross sections, which sources dayside. risk modifying sections basis aeronomical observations highlighted case while accurate shown crucial interpretation data from particle detectors onboard Mars Global Surveyor. Finally, shows AtMoCiad, public database evaluation aeronomy section A detailed study resulting emissions focus forthcoming paper (Gronoff et al., 2012) outputs discussed used compute uncertainty, overall result compared with SPICAM UV spectrometer Express.