ScintPi: On the use of low-cost sensors to monitor ionospheric weather and evaluate potential risks
Abstract
It is recognized that the use of distributed arrays of small instruments (DASI) can contribute to our understanding of fundamental physical processes in space sciences. The use of a network of low-cost instruments can also contribute to our understanding of the spatial extent of space weather events and their impact on different types of technological systems that rely on trans-ionospheric radio propagation. ScintPi is a low-cost, easy-to-build ionospheric scintillation monitor developed using Raspberry Pi and peripherals. Each system costs about \$100.00 USD and uses GPS signals to monitor ionospheric irregularities. As a test of the system, a ScintPi prototype operated continuously for over a year In Brazil and was used to successfully monitor the occurrence of ionospheric irregularities associated with equatorial spread F. Additional details of the system and discussion of observations can be found in Rodrigues and Moraes, Earth and Space Science, (2019), doi: 10.1029/2019EA000588. In this talk, we will provide information about ScintPi and present and discuss examples of observations provided by the system. Then, we will discuss how ScintPi can help us to advance understanding of the conditions and regions of enhanced risk in ionospheric weather. In addition to its potential to advance our understanding of fundamental physical processes and the impact of ionospheric weather on system, we will also highlight how ScintPi can also be used to disseminate information about space weather and engage students in research in space sciences.
- Publication:
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43rd COSPAR Scientific Assembly. Held 28 January - 4 February
- Pub Date:
- January 2021
- Bibcode:
- 2021cosp...43E.673R