ANTARCTIC ATMOSPHERE RESPONSE TO SUN-EARTH INTERACTIONS

Abstract

e present study presents the ionosphere behavior obtained from radio sounding measurements conducted at “Comandante Ferraz” Brazilian Antarctic Station. e results are discussed in the light of the long-trend behavior obtained in association with 11-year solar cycle. e long-term ionosphere behavior is controlled by the ultraviolet solar radiation, presenting variations closely associated with the solar cycle. In contrast, it is strongly a ected by the excess of X-ray emission produced during the solar ares. Studies have also shown that the ionosphere is strongly disturbed during local wintertime due to the e ect of atmospheric waves originated in the troposphere/stratosphere in their upward propagation. Recent studies on the ionosphere have improved our understanding of its response to natural phenomena, and about its coupling with lower atmospheric layers. e energy exchange among atmospheric layers might be an important driver in the climate conditions/changes, which a ect the terrestrial and marine environment, especially in the polar region.