The measurement of ionospheric absorption using extraterrestrial radio waves

Abstract

Introduction: The discovery by Jansky in 1932 of the presence of radio waves incident upon the earth from outer space has led to several new methods of studying the earth's upper atmosphere. This report describes the manner in which these extraterrestrial radio waves may be used to measure the radio absorption characteristics of the ionosphere. It opens with a brief discussion of the theory of ionospheric absorption; this is followed by a description of the basic principles involved in this new technique. Two different types of equipment which may be used for this type of absorption measurement are then discussed. The report concludes with a brief summary of three types of ionospheric absorption phenomena which have been studied at various latitudes with such equipments.