Optimization of Models

Abstract

The parameters of model auroral current systems were described in the previous chapter. To model the currents at any given time, these parameters must be adjusted to provide an optimal match to the available observations. Once that optimization is done, it is claimed that the data have been inverted within the framework of the proposed forward model. As will be seen in later chapters, the simple forward models proposed do, in fact, allow a good representation of the auroral current systems. Their parameters are also demonstrably amenable to optimization based on ground based data, at least in the case of east-west systems. After a brief discussion of aspects of the forward models which are relevant to the optimization, optimization techniques themselves are discussed and demonstrated below.