Multi-MeV Electron Dynamics Near the Inner Edge of the Outer Radiation Belt

A variety of dynamic behavior of multi-MeV electrons near the inner edge of the outer radiation belt has been revealed by detailed analysis of Van Allen Probes data. This study presents multi-MeV electron flux and phase space density (PSD) using Van Allen Probes data during two strong geomagnetic storms to reveal their energy-dependent dynamics in the outer belt, with dynamics occurring on timescales of hours to similar to 1 week. Enhancements are shown down to L = 2.6, where similar to 3 MeV electron populations are enhanced by an order of magnitude during one storm of study. Study of a second comparable storm shows rapid depletion of electron populations up to similar to 7 MeV in the region 2.6 <= L <= 3. We also identify a local electron PSD peak at L approximate to 3 that slowly accumulates during quiet time and is rapidly depleted during an intense storm. Possible contributors to these dynamics are discussed.