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Effect of Density Irregularities on Radio Frequency Wave Propagation in Ionospheric Plasmas

Journal Article · · EPJ Web of Conferences (Online)
 [1];  [2];  [3];  [3];  [3];  [4]
  1. Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory (PPPL), Princeton, NJ (United States); Andrews University, Berrien Springs, MI (United States)
  2. Andrews University, Berrien Springs, MI (United States)
  3. Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory (PPPL), Princeton, NJ (United States)
  4. Johns Hopkins Univ., Laurel, MD (United States)
+ Show Author Affiliations
Density irregularities play a vital role in determining how radio frequency (RF) waves travel through plasmas. In the Earth’s ionosphere, these density irregularities also impact radio communication. In this study, we conduct a detailed numerical analysis of RF wave propagation in small-scale ionospheric density irregularities using the advanced Petra-M code. We focus specifically on high-frequency (HF) waves, ranging from 3 to 30 MHz, which are essential for military, amateur radio operators, and emergency communications. By introducing density structures, such as equatorial plasma bubbles derived from fluid simulations, we demonstrate that HF waves can scatter in multiple directions when they encounter these irregularities. Additionally, we observe significant mode conversion, where incoming electromagnetic waves transform into electrostatic modes within the density gradient layer. This shows that smaller density irregularities can greatly weaken signals or cause complete signal loss for receivers, emphasizing the need for increased awareness and innovative solutions in radio communication transmission.
Research Organization:
Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory (PPPL), Princeton, NJ (United States)
Sponsoring Organization:
National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA); National Science Foundation (NSF); USDOE Office of Science (SC)
Grant/Contract Number:
AC02-09CH11466
OSTI ID:
3014328
Journal Information:
EPJ Web of Conferences (Online), Journal Name: EPJ Web of Conferences (Online) Vol. 346; ISSN 2100-014X
Publisher:
EDP SciencesCopyright Statement
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English

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An FDTD Investigation of Orthogonality and the Backscattering of HF Waves in the Presence of Ionospheric Irregularities journal September 2020
Simulation Research on the Influence of Plasma Bubbles on Radio Wave Propagation journal February 2023
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Propagation of EMIC Waves From Shabansky Orbits in the Dayside Magnetosphere journal February 2025
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