GNSS and Ionosonde receivers for Investigations of the Ionospheric density variability and structuring
Abstract
Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) receivers and design, construct, and install four ionosonde receiver stations. The new receivers will be deployed in five countries in South America. These receivers will make it possible to upgrade, augment, and establish a real-time network of ionospheric instruments covering a vast region of the Continent. The aim is to nowcast and forecast the ionospheric density variability and its turbulence. During the night, the low latitude ionosphere is unstable, developing density depletions, a process commonly named Equatorial Spread F (ESF). The ESF phenomena produce dispersion and scattering of radio wave signals due to the formation of plasma irregularities that continuously evolve within the steep walls of plasma depletions. The performance of a GNSS receiver is affected by the ionospheric turbulence that creates radio signal fading (e. g., scintillations). Large density gradients compromise and sometimes interrupt aero civil navigation systems such as ground-based augmentation system (GBAS) now used for precision approach landing. Under severe turbulence, loss of integrity and availability of GBAS systems operating at low latitudes can occur. Traveling Ionospheric Disturbances (TID) transiting across the F-region bottomside are also able to modify the plasma density profile and the F-layer height affecting the precision of over–the–horizon radars. During magnetic storms, the development of penetration electric fields and disturbance dynamo wind can transport plasma depletions-bubbles and irregularities to much higher latitudes. During the last ten years, several studies have reported
Document Details
- Document Type
- DoD Grant Award
- Publication Date
- Mar 07, 2023
- Source ID
- FA95502110277
Entities
People
- C. E. Valladares
Organizations
- Air Force Office of Scientific Research
- United States Air Force
- University of Texas at Dallas