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First Observations of Large Scale Traveling Ionospheric Disturbances Using Automated Amateur Radio Receiving Networks
  • +7
  • Nathaniel Anthony Frissell,
  • Stephen Roland Kaeppler,
  • Diego F Sanchez,
  • Gareth William Perry,
  • William Dozier Engelke,
  • Philip J Erickson,
  • Anthea J Coster,
  • John Michael Ruohoniemi,
  • J. B. H. Baker,
  • Mary Lou West
Nathaniel Anthony Frissell
The University of Scranton, The University of Scranton

Corresponding Author:[email protected]

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Stephen Roland Kaeppler
Clemson University, Clemson University
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Diego F Sanchez
New Jersey Institute of Technology, New Jersey Institute of Technology
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Gareth William Perry
New Jersey Institute of Technology, New Jersey Institute of Technology
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William Dozier Engelke
The University of Alabama, The University of Alabama
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Philip J Erickson
Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Massachusetts Institute of Technology
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Anthea J Coster
MIT Haystack Observatory, MIT Haystack Observatory
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John Michael Ruohoniemi
Virginia Tech, Virginia Tech
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J. B. H. Baker
Virginia Tech, Virginia Tech
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Mary Lou West
Montclair State University, Montclair State University
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Abstract

We demonstrate a novel method for observing Large Scale Traveling Ionospheric Disturbances (LSTIDs) using high frequency (HF) amateur radio reporting networks, including the Reverse Beacon Network (RBN), Weak Signal Propagation Reporter Network (WSPRNet), and PSKReporter. LSTIDs are quasi-periodic variations in ionospheric densities with horizontal wavelengths > 1000 km and periods between 30 to 180 min. On 3 Nov 2017, LSTID signatures were observed simultaneously over the continental United States in amateur radio, SuperDARN HF radar, and GNSS Total Electron Content with a period of ~2.5 hr, propagation azimuth of ~163°, horizontal wavelength of ~1680 km, and phase speed of ~1200 km/hr. SuperMAG SME index enhancements and Poker Flat Incoherent Scatter Radar measurements suggest the LSTIDs were driven by auroral electrojet intensifications and Joule heating. This novel measurement technique has applications in future scientific studies and for assessing the impact of LSTIDs on HF communications.
16 Mar 2022Published in Geophysical Research Letters volume 49 issue 5. 10.1029/2022GL097879