T2.4: Multi-station validation — Wallops Island

[w2naf]

Description

Add Wallops Island, VA as a second validation reference station. This was the reference used in the 2025 poster, providing continuity. Compare validation results across Alpena and Wallops.

Requirements

• Retrieve Wallops Island Digisonde data from GIRO using the module from T1.3: GIRO data retrieval module #3
  • Wallops Island URSI code: WP937 (verify)
• Build a time-aligned paired dataset for Wallops (same approach as T1.4: Time-aligned comparison dataset #4)
• Compute the same validation metrics as T1.5: Statistical validation of virtual heights #5 (bias, RMSE, r, N) for both frequencies
• Generate comparison table: Alpena vs. Wallops metrics side by side
• Discuss whether distance matters:
  • Wallops Island is approx 350 km from W2NAF
  • Alpena is approx 900 km from W2NAF
  • Does the closer station show better agreement?

Acceptance Criteria

• Wallops Island GIRO data retrieved and processed
• Validation metrics computed for Wallops
• Comparison table: Alpena vs. Wallops metrics side by side
• Discussion of distance effect

Timeline

• Start: Apr 17, 2026
• Due: Apr 24, 2026
• Milestone: Dayton Hamvention 2026
• Depends on: T1.3: GIRO data retrieval module #3, T1.4: Time-aligned comparison dataset #4

Context

Phase 2 of Track 1. Multi-station validation strengthens the validation argument. See plans/track1-workplan.md.