Center for Astrophysics Research and Technologies Seminar Series
Using Natural Phenomena to Study the Ionosphere
Presented by Joe Malins (UNM)
We explore novel techniques for observing the ionosphere using natural signals, specifically from pulsars and lightning. These signals can help to determine the state of the ionosphere, such as the density height profile at any particular point by seeing how these signals propagate through them. For example, the highly polarized emissions from some pulsars allow for precise observations of Rotation Measure (RM), or frequency independent Faraday Rotation. Using a model of the geomagnetic field, the RM contribution from the ionosphere to these pulsar measurements allow for some determination of the ionospheric structure. Lightning is another natural source of radio emission, producing bright radio pulses as the lightning flash occurs. The direct line of sight signal from the lightning, which does not pass through the ionosphere, can be compared to signals reflected off of ionospheric structures to determine the state of the ionosphere. These techniques demonstrate the ability of natural signals to passively specify the ionosphere and open a new regime for examining the complex structures of this important region of the atmosphere.
2:00 pm, Thursday, October 24, 2019
PAIS-2540, PAIS
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