Using novel multi-point incoherent scatter radar methods to resolve F-region high-latitude irregularity spectra

Abstract:

Plasma structuring in the high-latitude ionosphere impacts over-the-horizon radio communication and global navigation systems, and are an important space weather effect. Therefore, characterizing the formation and morphology of these structures is critically important. Advanced modular Incoherent Scatter Radars (ISRs) provide a unique opportunity to supply multiple measurements of a given plasma irregularity, and given the duration over which the Resolute Bay ISR-North (RISR-N), Resolute Bay ISR-Canada (RISR-C), and Poker Flat ISR (PFISR) have been operating, observations from these instruments can now be used to determine favorable conditions, locations, and scale-sizes of plasma irregularities in the high-latitude ionosphere. By leveraging phased array ISR technology, and using the facts that, cross-field diffusion is slow at scale lengths greater than 10 km, and the magnetic field lines are nearly vertical at high-latitudes, we develop and apply a novel technique for ISR measurements to resolve high-latitude ionospheric irregularity spectra at a higher spatial-temporal resolution than has been previously possible with ground-based instruments. From these irregularity spectra, we quantify the abundance and scale-sizes of plasma structures in the high-latitude ionosphere, as well as their drivers. In this presentation, we will motivate the newly developed ISR technique, describe its methodology, and demonstrate its effectiveness. This technique will enable future studies that will directly link high-latitude ionospheric plasma structure drivers to their impact on radio wave propagation.