SPACE — A solar eclipse can have a real impact on the structure and dynamics of the upper layer of the Earth’s atmosphere, the ionosphere. Primarily caused by a sudden reduction in solar radiation reaching the atmosphere during an eclipse.
“Because the ionosphere contains charged particles (ions and electrons) and is responsible for reflecting and refracting radio waves, changes to the ionosphere can also affect radio communication and navigation systems,” wrote McKenzie Denton, Member of HamSCI Citizen Science, published on NASA’s official website, Tuesday , September 26, 2023.
The following is the impact of a solar eclipse on the structure and dynamics of the ionosphere:
Ionization Changes: In the ionosphere, solar radiation is the main source of ionization, which is the process by which atoms or molecules become charged when they gain or lose electrons. During an eclipse, reduced solar radiation causes a decrease in ionization, especially in the ionosphere at an altitude of around 37 to 56 miles. This decrease in ionization causes a temporary decrease in electron density in the ionosphere.
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Temperature Changes: A decrease in solar radiation during an eclipse can also cause cooling of the upper atmosphere. This cooling can affect the temperature structure of the ionosphere, potentially causing changes in ionospheric density and height.
Electron Density Variations: Reduced ionization and cooling during an eclipse can cause a decrease in electron density in the ionosphere. This can affect the propagation of radio waves, especially in the high frequency (HF) range, which relies on ionospheric reflections for long-distance communications.
Ionospheric Anomalies: Sudden changes in ionospheric conditions during an eclipse cause the formation of ionospheric anomalies, such as holes or thinning of the ionosphere. This anomaly can interfere with radio signals and GPS navigation systems, thereby affecting communications and navigation in the affected area.
Propagation Effects: Changes in ionospheric conditions due to an eclipse can also change the way radio waves propagate through the ionosphere. This causes fading, absorption, and refraction of signals, thereby affecting shortwave and satellite communications systems.
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Solar eclipses provide a unique opportunity for researchers to study the ionosphere and its response to sudden changes in solar radiation. Scientists can use a variety of instruments, such as ionosondes, GPS receivers, and radar systems, to measure and monitor ionospheric variations during an eclipse.
Although a solar eclipse can have a real impact on the ionosphere, it is generally temporary and limited to the region experiencing the eclipse. “The ionosphere usually returns to its normal state after the eclipse event is over, and solar radiation levels return to normal,” Denton wrote. Source: NASA
2023-09-26 17:21:00
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