Using the combined resources of amateur radio observations and ionosonde data in the study of temperate zone sporadic-E

Abstract

This paper discusses how key characteristics of temperate zone sporadic-E can be determined by making use of the combined experiences of amateur radio observations and ionosonde data. There are advantages to using this unified approach in the study of the phenomenon, and to understand and draw conclusions from the data. A brief history of amateur radio involvement in the phenomenon is provided along with actual radio observations in the 50 MHz band. Long term ionosonde data collected at Boulder, Colorado were examined using the benefit of radio experience in order to find what correlations may exist with other phenomena. Some significant conclusions regarding characteristics of temperate zone sporadic-E can be drawn through this approach.