First Observations of Large Scale Traveling Ionospheric Disturbances
Using Automated Amateur Radio Receiving Networks
Abstract
Large Scale Traveling Ionospheric Disturbances (LSTIDs) are
quasi-periodic variations in ionospheric densities with horizontal
wavelengths ~1000 km and periods between 30 to 180 min.
On 3 Nov 2017, LSTIDs were detected in Reverse Beacon Network (RBN),
Weak Signal Propagation Reporting Network (WSPRNet), and Phase Shift
Keying Reporter (PSKReporter) observations for the first time. These
observing networks are high frequency (HF, 3-30 MHz) amateur (ham) radio
networks that provide data to the Ham Radio Science Citizen
Investigation (HamSCI). LSTID signatures were observed simultaneously
over the continental United States in amateur radio, SuperDARN HF radar,
and GNSS Total Electron Content measurements. The LSTIDs were estimated
to have 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.