A1 8 How To Build Your Own Aurora

Abstract

This paper presents a framework for a large-scale (100 m3), contained artificial aurora. We derive the energy required to sustain a low-pressure plasma via an external radio frequency field, deriving the required power density of 267 W/m3 for an argon plasma, which results in a feasible input power of 26.7 kW. This is briefly taken further in considering other gases, linking the photon output to the energy cost. Finally, we establish the principles of plasma control through the use of the Lorentz force, showing how this could be used to shape the glow.