Using High Frequency Propagation to Calculate Basic Maximum Usable Frequency

TL;DR

This study compares observed and predicted ionospheric data for the F2-layer using the IRI model, focusing on high frequency propagation and BMUF, across different solar activity levels at a mid-latitude station.

Contribution

It evaluates the accuracy of the IRI model in predicting BMUF and foF2, introducing correction factors to improve prediction during varying solar activity periods.

Findings

Good correlation between observed and predicted foF2, except in specific months.

High correlation for BMUF during low solar activity years.

Correction factors improve BMUF prediction accuracy.

Abstract

A comparison between observed (obs.) digital ionospheric sounding data and predicted (pre.) using International Reference Ionosphere (IRI) model for critical frequency (foF2) and Basic Maximum Usable Frequency (BMUF) of ionospheric F2-Layer has been made. A mid-latitude region selected for this research work by using data from station Wakkanai ($45.38^{o} N$, $141.66^{o} E$). This study included 12 monthly median data from year (2001, $R_{12}=111$) selected for high Sunspot number (SSN) and years for low SSN (2004, $R_{12}=44$) and (2005, $R_{12}=29$). Frequency parameters foF2 reveals that there is a good correlation between observed and predicted except for January of years 2001 and 2004, and BMUF revealed that there is a good correlation between observed and predicted for years of low SSN and all months except in month 1, 9 and 12 of year 2004, for year 2001 of high SSN there is a bad correlation. A correction factor as a function of time used from fitting technique to correct the predicted value with observed value of BMUF for year 2001.