A Semi-empirical, Low-latitude Ionospheric Model

A Semi-empirical, Low-latitude Ionospheric Model
Author: David N. Anderson
Publisher:
Total Pages: 112
Release: 1985
Genre: Airglow
ISBN:

Since current empirical models specifying low-latitude electron density profiles severely underestimate the daytime plasma density scale-height and total electron content (TEC), a Semi-empirical, Low-latitude, Ionospheric Model (SLIM) was developed which is not only more realistic but is also computationally fast. Electron density profiles (180 to 1800 km) are theoretically calculated as a function of latitude (every 2 deg between 24 N and 24 S dip latitude) and local time (every half-hour over 24 hours LT) by solving the time-dependent plasma continuity equation. Assuming a Chapman-like profile, sets coefficients are then generated which reproduce these individual profiles. The coefficients themselves are easily stored, quickly retrieved and form the basis for a fast, portable, semi-empirical computer code. This report describes briefly the input parameters used to theoretically calculate profiles and the procedures used to generate the coefficients. The SLIM profiles are compared with the Chiu and Bent empirical models for Equinox, solar maximum conditions. Finally electron densities, the coefficients, TEC and 6300 A airglow intensities are listed in tabular form for three seasons (Equinox, June solstice, and December solstice) and two solar cycle periods (solar maximum and solar minimum).

An Analytic/empirical Model of the Middle and Low Latitude Ionosphere

An Analytic/empirical Model of the Middle and Low Latitude Ionosphere
Author: Jeffrey M. Forbes
Publisher:
Total Pages: 58
Release: 1989
Genre: F region
ISBN:

An improved analytic/empirical model of F-layer plasma density is developed by modifying the Chiu (1975) model so as to: (a) better approximate middle latitude F-layer peak heights (hmF2's) as derived from ionosonde data, and (b) better model features such as the post-sunset rise in the F-layer peak height, and the equatorial anomaly maxima in plasma density near + or - 15 geomagnetic latitude. The latter is accomplished by applying analytic low-latitude correction as derived from differences between the Chiu model and the SLIM model of Anderson et al. Results of a numerical model are also presented that demonstrate the importance of these low-latitude plasma structures tot he neutral dynamics of the thermosphere.

Ionospheric Prediction and Forecasting

Ionospheric Prediction and Forecasting
Author: Bruno Zolesi
Publisher: Springer Science & Business Media
Total Pages: 244
Release: 2013-09-25
Genre: Science
ISBN: 3642384307

This book describes how to predict and forecast the state of planet Earth’s ionosphere under quiet and disturbed conditions in terms of dynamical processes in the weakly ionized plasma media of the upper atmosphere and their relation to available modern measurements and modelling techniques. It explains the close relationship between the state of the media and the radio wave propagation conditions via this media. The prediction and forecasting algorithms, methods and models are oriented towards providing a practical approach to ionospherically dependent systems design and engineering. Proper understanding of the ionosphere is of fundamental practical importance because it is an essential part of telecommunication and navigation systems that use the ionosphere to function or would function much better in its nonappearance on the Earth and on any planet with an atmosphere.