Ionospheric VLF Radio Reflection Analysis System

TL;DR

This paper presents a low-cost, terrestrial VLF radio-based system for reliable solar flare detection by analyzing ionospheric reflection variations, offering an accessible alternative to expensive satellite methods.

Contribution

The paper introduces a practical, cost-effective VLF monitoring system for solar flare detection, demonstrating its effectiveness through real-world data collection.

Findings

VLF signals reflect ionospheric changes caused by solar flares

The system reliably detects solar flare events from remote locations

Cost and simplicity outperform traditional satellite-based detection methods

Abstract

Historically, solar flare detection has been dependent on methods that require the presence of expensive satellites or other Earth based costly equipment. In this paper, we propose a cost effective, terrestrial alternative that enables reliable solar flare detection. We will discuss the design, practical implementation, and demonstration of a monitoring system for VLF (Very Low Frequency, 3 kHz to 30 kHz) radio signals transmitted by stations located thousands of kilometers away. This frequency range was selected because VLF radio waves are efficiently reflected by the lower ionospheric layers, and any changes in these layers lead to corresponding variations in the received signal. We have used a magnetic loop antenna for signal reception along with a low noise amplifier, analog-to-digital converter, and spectrum analyzer. Data was collected over the course of a few days, from a remote location with minimal electromagnetic interference. From the viewpoint of cost, simplicity and accessibility, this method far surpasses traditional methods of detecting solar flares, using satellites, telescopes, etc.