Abstract. The non-Maxwellian electron energy distribution function (EEDF) in the positive column of a neon dc-discharge was reconstructed from the visible emission spectrum obtained with an overview spectrometer. The analysis is based on Bayesian probability theory (integrated data analysis), which allows for the use of the full information in the spectral data by incorporating all important underlying physical mechanisms. The data are described by a collisional–radiative model and a statistical description of the spectroscopic measurement. An extensive and consistent set of electron impact excitation cross sections and Einstein coefficients obtained through semi-relativistic B-Spline R-Matrix calculations is employed, and estimates for uncertainties are included in the analysis. The results are consistent with theoretical modelling and reference measurements.

Print publication: Issue 20 (21 October 2008)
Received 11 June 2008, in final form 20 August 2008
Published 25 September 2008