Ionospheric Model Assessment Using the Arecibo Ionosphere Database

The electron density specification of the ionosphere is the key parameter supporting many operational products. To assess the accuracy of tools based on space weather models of the ionosphere one must know the accuracy of the underlining models. The Arecibo Radar Observatory (ARO) provides an Incoherent Scatter Radar (ISR) database with extensive observations of ionospheric parameters over a broad range of solar cycle, season, local time, and geomagnetic activity. We have carefully examined these ionosphere profile data to apply thoughtful uncertainties related to the ARO measurement, analysis, and ionospheric representation for the background ionosphere. The Arecibo electron density profile database is used to assess the performance of ionospheric models. Three models are assessed: (1) International Reference Ionosphere (IRI), (2) Ionospheric Forecast Model (IFM), and (3) Coupled Thermosphere-Ionosphere-Plasmasphere-Electrodynamics Model CTIPe. The database, metrics, and reporting package developed to assess ionospheric models is being transferred to the CCMC for public use. Acknowledgment: We wish to acknowledge the support of NSF National Space Weather Program under contract ATM0317777.