Variability of transionospheric signal time delay at high latitudes near solar minimum
Abstract
Faraday observations were conducted at Anchorage, Alaska (61.04 degrees N, 149.75 degrees W) utilizing beacon transmissions from a geostationary satellite during the period just following the minimum phase of solar cycle 21. Average maximum monthly values of total electron content (TEC), which is proportional to transionospheric signal time delay, were below 15 x 10 to the 16th power el m-2, while individual daily maximum values never exceeded 20 x 10 to the 16th power m-2. Seasonal and day-to-day variabilities were observed. Unique representation of the data has permitted the study of day-to-day variability of TEC. For example, during all seasons the TEC structure appears uniform from day to day during the buildup and decay phase of the local ionosphere. During the maximum and minimum of the diurnal phase, the TEC structure variability is seasonally dependent. During periods of magnetic sudden commencements, which rarely occurred in the observations period, significant positive phase response of TEC did not materialize.
- Publication:
-
In AGARD Propagation Effects on Military Systems in the High Latitude Region 9 p (SEE N86-27531 18-32
- Pub Date:
- November 1985
- Bibcode:
- 1985pems.agarQ....S
- Keywords:
-
- Annual Variations;
- Earth Ionosphere;
- Faraday Effect;
- Ionospheric Electron Density;
- Ionospheric Propagation;
- Radio Signals;
- Time Lag;
- Alaska;
- Artificial Satellites;
- Solar Activity Effects;
- Sun;
- Communications and Radar