Institute for Scientific Research
Boston College
Seminar
Speaker: Mr. Sovit Khadka, Physics Department/ISR, Boston College
Title: Studies on Equatorial and Low Latitude Ionospheric Phenomena and Their Influence on Total
Electron Content and Scintillation
When: Tuesday, Apr. 7, 2015, at 1:00pm.
Where: Conference Room, ISR, 202 Kenny Cottle Hall, 885 Centre St., Newton Campus.
Abstract:
The ionospheric electron density over the equatorial and low latitude regions shows significant
variabilities with space and time due to the existence of unique dynamical phenomena such as
equatorial electrojet, vertical ExB drift, plasma fountain effect, and ionospheric irregularities. The
dynamics of the ionosphere after sunset play a vital role in the generation and evolution of the electron
density irregularities. These ionospheric irregularities affect almost all radio signals of communication
and navigation systems utilizing the earth space propagation path. Present study aimed to understand
the correlation of the pre-sunset equatorial and low latitude ionospheric phenomena with the
occurrence of the post-sunset ionospheric TEC (Total Electron Content) disturbance and scintillation.
This study engaged to the analysis of the data obtained from magnetometer, ionosonde, radar, and GPS
(Global Positioning System) receiver in South America to define the connection of pre and post sunset
ionospheric phenomena. The ultimate goal of this study is to mitigate ionospheric scintillation effects
and increase the performance of GNSS (Global Navigation Satellite System) for the safer and more
reliable communication and navigation systems..