The Study of Equatorial Spread F (ESF) and the ionospheric F3 layer
Abstract
The proposed project will collect and analyze VIPIR ionosonde data from the Philippines and Palau. We will generate daily visual ionogram products that will show ionospheric dynamics with a five-minute time resolution. An investigation will be conducted to determine the time and characteristics of equatorial F3 layer formation, Equatorial Spread F (ESF), the presence of sporadic-E, and notable ionogram features on days when either F3 layers or ESF are present. The results will include a statistical analysis of occurrence,binned by geomagnetic Kenziffers Potsdam (Kp) index which is correlated with storm time electric fields that suppress vertical (ExB) plasma drift. The resulting report will include identification of days when there is sporadic-E versus days when there is no sporadic-E, Kp values, and percent days that ESF and F3 occur for each condition. The results will provide an analysis of the zonal electric field dependence on ESF and F3 formation, and provide a detailed record that can be used in a future investigation to evaluate the dependence on neutral atmosphere weather including gravity waves, neutral winds, and thermospheric tides.
Document Details
- Document Type
- DoD Grant Award
- Publication Date
- Mar 08, 2024
- Source ID
- N000142412140
Entities
People
- Justin Mabie
Organizations
- Office of Naval Research
- United States Navy