Ionosphere variability II: Advances in theory and modeling

Kurzfassung

This paper aims to provide an overview on recent advances in ionospheric modeling capabilities, with the emphasis in the efforts relevant to electron density variability. The discussion spans a wide range of model formulations (e.g., from purely empirical to physics-based ones and data-driven approaches) seeking for advances or gaps with regard to present challenges. This discussion is further supported by consideration of the models' assessment and accessibility, as well as scientific advances that may drive further improvements in our modeling capabilities. Giving the emphasis in the period from 2015 onwards, the ultimate goal of the present analysis is to comment on progress with respect to the COSPAR/ILWS Space Weather roadmap's considerations/recommendations for 2015–2025 as input to the roadmap’s update undertaken by the ISWAT/COSPAR action.