GNSS probing of local ionospheric disturbances in high latitude

Abstract

We present study of regional ionospheric perturbations in high latitude by monitoring dual frequency signals transmitted by Global Navigation Satellite Systems (GNSS). The variations in Total Electron Content (TEC) are identified from high rate GNSS receivers placed in Ramfjordmoen and in Tromsø, Norway. During the experiments in winter 2010, HF electromagnetic pumping waves from EISCAT heating facility in Ramfjordmoen were transmitted along the geomagnetic field lines. The modification of ionosphere was observed by EISCAT UHF radar. We analyze TEC measurements from GLONASS satellite with regard to the distance between the Ionospheric Piercing Points and estimated heated center at 200 km. TEC data shows background increases over the heating cycles as well as some localized variations which may be associated with heating on/off intervals. The largest variations from the background TEC are seen during the longer heating intervals in the vicinity of the heating beam direction.