Study of ionospheric F2 layer dynamics using Digisonde DPS-4 measurements in Pruhonice observatory

Title: Ionospheric drift measurements Author: Daniel Kouba Department: Department of Surface and Plasma Science Supervisor: RNDr. Petra Koucká Knížová, Ph.D. Institute of Atmospheric Physics, Academy of Sciences of the Czech Republic Abstract: This thesis deals with ionospheric drift measurements using Digisonde DPS-4. The results are divided into theoretical and practical part. It is shown that for drift data processing it is necessary to choose correct reflection points corresponding to drift movements first. The selection is made in three steps: restriction of Doppler frequency shift, height range selection, choice of the maximum zenith angle. After- wards it is possible to credibly estimate the vector of drift velocity. The experimental results of drift measurements are based on data from the Pru- honice station. To study the common behavior of ionospheric drifts during quiet conditions, the statistical characteristics of drift velocity components are investiga- ted in layers E and F during geomagnetic quiet year 2006. The maximal daily amplitude of horizontal velocity demonstrates the influence of geomagnetic activity. It is proved to be considerable in the F layer meanwhile it was not observed in the E layer. The effect of strong geomagnetic disturbances is shown at two examples of extreme storms. The..