Utilization of ionosonde data to analyze the latitudinal penetration of ionospheric storm effects

Technical Report · Tue Mar 01 04:00:00 EST 1988

OSTI ID:6724379

Forbes, J M; Codrescu, M; Hall, T J

Increased emphasis is placed on global coupling between the magnetosphere, ionosphere, and thermosphere systems, particularly with regard to the penetration of dynamic, chemical, and electrodynamic effects from high to low latitudes during magnetically disturbed periods. An emerging potential exists for latitudinal and longitudinal chains of ionosondes to contribute uniquely to this thrust in ways complementary to the capabilities and shortcomings of other groundbased sensors and satellites. Here is illustrated a methodology to realize the fullest potential of such ionosonde data. Hourly values are fit in latitude using Legendre polynominals, and variations from quiet time values are displayed in latitude - U.T. coordinates using a color graphics method which provides an illuminating illustration of the penetration of ionospheric disturbances in latitude and their dependence on Kp, storm time, and local time. Observed effects are interpreted in terms of plausible electric field, neutral wind, and neutral composition changes during the storm period. Besides reflecting the anticipated southward flows and equatorward extensions in conjunction with magnetically disturbed conditions, the 24-hour average meridional winds exhibit a northward return flow after the magnetic disturbance has relaxed.

• Research Organization: Boston Univ., MA (USA)
• OSTI ID: 6724379
• Report Number(s): AD-A-195980/8/XAB
• Country of Publication: United States
• Language: English

Related Subjects

640201* -- Atmospheric Physics-- Auroral
Ionospheric
& Magetospheric Phenomena
71 CLASSICAL AND QUANTUM MECHANICS
GENERAL PHYSICS
DISTURBANCES
EARTH ATMOSPHERE
ELECTRONIC EQUIPMENT
EQUIPMENT
GEOGRAPHICAL VARIATIONS
IONOSONDES
IONOSPHERE
LATITUDE EFFECT
MAGNETIC STORMS
PLANETARY IONOSPHERES
RADIO EQUIPMENT
VARIATIONS