HamSCI: Ionospheric Climatology Over a Complete Solar Cycle Observed
Using Amateur Radio Contact Data
Abstract
Since mid-2008, automated radio monitoring networks such as the Reverse
Beacon Network (RBN) and the Weak Signal Propagation Reporting Network
(WSPRNet) have been observing and logging global amateur radio high
frequency (HF, 3-30 MHz) communications. These networks are built and
operated by amateur radio operators for amateur radio purposes, but the
data are also useful for the study of ionospheric space weather and
ionospheric science. Ham Radio Science Citizen Investigation (HamSCI)
members will present global observations of over 1.9 billion radio
reports on the 1.8, 3.5, 7, 14, 21, and 28 MHz amateur radio bands. The
observations span an 11-year period from 2009-2020. We find a
correlation between HF propagation path characteristics and the solar
EUV output through the F10.7 index, along with solar cycle effects,
seasonal effects, and sporadic E signatures. We will also discuss
impacts of operator behavior and sampling effects caused by the
distribution of amateur radio transmitting and receiving stations.