Description
Characterize when the HamSCI ionosonde can and cannot detect echoes, and relate this to ionospheric conditions measured by GIRO. This is a scientifically interesting result on its own.
Analysis Required
Detection Statistics
- For each sounding frequency (3.5, 7.0 MHz), compute fraction of time echoes are detected (overall, day, night)
- Detection rate as a function of GIRO foF2 (bin by foF2 in 0.5 MHz increments)
Figures
- Detection probability vs. foF2 for each sounding frequency — should show a transition near the sounding frequency
- Time-of-day heatmap showing detection rate by hour and frequency
- Timeline showing echo presence/absence overlaid with GIRO foF2
Threshold Analysis
- Determine empirical foF2 threshold at which detection probability = 50% for each frequency
- Compare to theoretical expectation (echo lost when foF2 < sounding frequency)
- If discrepancy exists, discuss possible causes (D-region absorption, noise floor, antenna pattern, distance to reference Digisonde)
Nighttime Gap
- Quantify what fraction of nighttime hours have no echoes on each frequency
- Relate to typical nighttime foF2 values
Acceptance Criteria
Timeline
Context
Phase 2 of Track 1 validation. This analysis characterizes the instrument's observational coverage. See plans/track1-workplan.md.
Description
Characterize when the HamSCI ionosonde can and cannot detect echoes, and relate this to ionospheric conditions measured by GIRO. This is a scientifically interesting result on its own.
Analysis Required
Detection Statistics
Figures
Threshold Analysis
Nighttime Gap
Acceptance Criteria
Timeline
Context
Phase 2 of Track 1 validation. This analysis characterizes the instrument's observational coverage. See plans/track1-workplan.md.