Total electron content variations observed at a low latitude GPS station in association to geomagnetic storms
Abstract
Total electron content (TEC) has been continuously monitored since January 1997, using a GPS dual frequency receiver located at Presidente Prudente (22o 07'S, 51o 22' W). In this paper the enhancements observed in the ionspheric TEC are associated with geomagnetic field variations for six geomagnetic storms that occurred from 1997 to 2000. The events were selected according to the integrity and availability of data. The purpose of this study is to provide a better knowledge of the low-latitude behavior of TEC in association to geomagnetic storms. Quiet-time TEC values were obtained by the average of the five magnetically less disturbed days of the month. These values were subtracted from the TEC hourly averages measured during the period of the magnetic storms. Magnetic field intensity measured on the ground was used for the identification of the storm time variations and the Dst indices were also included as a reference for the latitudes considered. The results showed that moderate geomagnetic storms produce small effects in TEC, intense and super intense (Dst < ~150 nT) geomagnetic storms produce well defined and long lasting TEC enhancements. The super intense storms cause the GPS signals to loose their track and the corresponding TEC values cannot be derived.
- Publication:
-
34th COSPAR Scientific Assembly
- Pub Date:
- 2002
- Bibcode:
- 2002cosp...34E2620M