Geomagnetic modification of the mid-latitude ionosphere - Toward a strategy for the improved forecasting of f0F2

Journal Article · Wed Feb 01 04:00:00 EST 1989 · Radio Sci.; (United States)

DOI:https://doi.org/10.1029/RS024i001p00099· OSTI ID:5810512

Wrenn, G L; Rodger, A S

An approach for modeling and forecasting the interspatial critical frequency (f0F2) at quiet and disturbed times is outlined. Statistical analyses of ionosonde data from the Argentine Islands (65 deg S) are used to define patterns for the main phase effects of midlatitude ionospheric storms. Extended to a number of stations, these could be incorporated into algorithms to permit the forecasting of maximum usable frequency for a few hours ahead and enhance the frequency management of shortwave radio communication, especially during a geomagnetic storm. Data from a complete solar cycle, 1971-1981, are used to determine the errors in the forecasts and to demonstrate that a useful advantage can be attained by this method. The rms error in f0F2 for 90,175 samples is 15.6 percent, which compares favorably with those obtained using forecasts based on quiet time values (20.4 percent) or the previous day's measurements (18 percent). 12 references.

• Research Organization: Royal Aerospace Establishment, Farnborough (England); NERC, British Antarctic Survey, Cambridge (England)
• OSTI ID: 5810512
• Journal Information: Radio Sci.; (United States), Journal Name: Radio Sci.; (United States) Vol. 24; ISSN RASCA
• Country of Publication: United States
• Language: English

Related Subjects

640201* -- Atmospheric Physics-- Auroral
Ionospheric
& Magetospheric Phenomena
71 CLASSICAL AND QUANTUM MECHANICS
GENERAL PHYSICS
ANNUAL VARIATIONS
COMPARATIVE EVALUATIONS
CRITICAL FREQUENCY
EARTH ATMOSPHERE
ERRORS
F REGION
F2 LAYER
FORECASTING
IONOSPHERE
IONOSPHERIC STORMS
MAGNETIC STORMS
MATHEMATICS
PLANETARY IONOSPHERES
SOLAR CYCLE
STATISTICS
VARIATIONS
WAVE PROPAGATION