Modeling of the Equatorial and Low-Latitude Ionosphere in the South American Sector During Geomagnetically Quiet and Disturbed Periods

• Grant number: 24/07964-0
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Post-Doctoral
• Start date: March 01, 2025
• End date: February 29, 2028
• Field of knowledge: Physical Sciences and Mathematics - Geosciences - Geophysics
• Principal Investigator: Clezio Marcos de Nardin
• Grantee: Sophia Rodrigues Laranja
• Host Institution: Instituto Nacional de Pesquisas Espaciais (INPE). Ministério da Ciência, Tecnologia e Inovação (Brasil). São José dos Campos , SP, Brazil

Abstract

In the equatorial and low-latitude regions, the Earth's ionosphere exhibits high complexity concerning the physical and chemical processes that control the dynamics and composition of plasma. In this context, the South American region has been extensively studied due to the particularities of the ionosphere in this sector. Notable features include the equatorial ionization anomaly (EIA) and the South American magnetic anomaly (SAMA). Thus, it is common to employ experimental techniques and modeling to understand the electrodynamics of the ionosphere in this region, with special attention to the F layer. The study of the F layer of the ionosphere is crucial for satellite communication and navigation, as its high plasma density directly affects these systems. In consideration of this, this research project proposes the development of a semi-empirical model of the F layer of the ionosphere over the South American Sector, enabling the study of the variability of fundamental physical mechanisms during geomagnetically quiet and disturbed periods. Furthermore, the semi-empirical modeling allows for coupling with the E layer through existing models, facilitating the investigation of interactions between the two ionospheric regions. Therefore, the main objective is to create an unprecedented model for space weather forecasting, with the ability to distinguish between different types of disturbed electric fields. To achieve this, data from the Estudo e Monitoramento Brasileiro do Clima Espacial (Embrace/INPE) program, satellite, and radar data will be utilized and adjusted using physical equations that describe the ionosphere in these regions. This project aims to contribute to both Brazilian and international ionospheric research, with its products being publicly disseminated for broad outreach.