Daily Current Affairs : 28-December-2023
The Indian Institute of Geomagnetism’s (IIG) recent examination of long-term seasonal ionospheric observations at the Bharati station in Antarctica, spanning from 2010 to 2022, sheds light on the dynamic nature of this atmospheric layer. This study also delves into the correlation between ionospheric behavior and solar activity, unraveling crucial information for the field of geography.
Understanding the Ionosphere:
Definition and Location: The ionosphere, situated between 100-1000 km in Earth’s upper atmosphere, is partially ionized and exhibits dynamic behavior. Positioned above the mesosphere, thermosphere, and exosphere, it plays a crucial role in space weather events.
Polar Regions Dynamics: In polar regions, the ionosphere’s dynamics are particularly pronounced, acting as a significant energy sink within the magnetosphere-ionosphere system. Vertical magnetic field lines in polar areas contribute to unique interactions, making the region an active zone for space weather events.
Active Atmosphere Layer: Overlapping with various atmospheric layers, the ionosphere experiences constant growth and shrinkage. Its activity is closely tied to solar energy absorption, making it a key player in understanding space weather phenomena.
Observational Challenges in Antarctica:
Observing the ionosphere over Antarctica presents challenges due to geographical constraints and a sparse station network, leading to relatively limited data compared to the Arctic.
Scientific Findings:
Long-term observations at Bharati station unveiled significant seasonal variations in total electron count (TEC), with maximum ionization during equinoctial months. Factors such as particle precipitation and convectional plasma transport from high latitudes were identified as contributors.
Seasonal Density Variations: During the polar days with 24 hours of sunlight in the summer, ionospheric density in the Bharati region was approximately twice that of polar nights.
Significance of the Study:
This decade-long study provides valuable insights into the ionosphere’s impact on satellite-based navigation and communication systems. Understanding these effects is crucial for developing effective mitigation strategies, ensuring the resilience and reliability of such systems in the face of dynamic atmospheric conditions.
Important Points:
- Understanding the Ionosphere:
- Definition and Location:
- Positioned between 100-1000 km in Earth’s upper atmosphere.
- Partially ionized and dynamic, above the mesosphere, thermosphere, and exosphere.
- Polar Regions Dynamics:
- Highly dynamic in polar regions, serving as a significant energy sink in the magnetosphere-ionosphere system.
- Unique interactions due to vertical magnetic field lines.
- Definition and Location:
- Active Atmosphere Layer:
- Overlaps with the mesosphere, thermosphere, and exosphere, exhibiting constant growth and shrinkage.
- Activity closely tied to solar energy absorption, influencing space weather events.
- Observational Challenges in Antarctica:
- Limited observations over Antarctica due to geographical constraints and sparse station network.
- Scientific Findings:
- Long-term observations at Bharati station revealing substantial seasonal variations in total electron count (TEC).
- Equinoctial months exhibit maximum ionization.
- Factors contributing to these variations include particle precipitation and convectional plasma transport.
- Seasonal Density Variations:
- During polar days with 24 hours of sunlight in summer, ionospheric density in Bharati region is approximately twice that of polar nights.
- Significance of the Study:
- Decade-long study provides insights into ionosphere’s impact on satellite-based navigation and communication systems.
- Understanding these effects aids in developing mitigation strategies for dynamic atmospheric conditions, ensuring system reliability.
Why In News
A team of scientists from the Indian Institute of Geomagnetism (IIG) have meticulously analyzed the long-term seasonal ionospheric observations at the Indian Antarctica station Bharati between 2010 and 2022, correlating the data with solar activity following the Sun’s 11-year cycle, to gain deeper insights into the dynamic interplay between atmospheric conditions and celestial phenomena in this remote region.
MCQs about Exploring the Ionosphere
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What is the ionosphere’s altitude range in Earth’s upper atmosphere?
A. 50-500 km
B. 100-1000 km
C. 200-800 km
D. 300-1200 km
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In polar regions, why is the ionosphere particularly dynamic?
A. Minimal solar influence
B. Unique interactions from vertical magnetic field lines
C. Limited atmospheric layers
D. Constant contraction
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What contributes to the seasonal variations in total electron count (TEC) at Bharati station in Antarctica?
A. Atmospheric pressure
B. Particle precipitation and convectional plasma transport
C. Earth’s rotation speed
D. Station altitude
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Why are observations in the ionosphere over Antarctica relatively limited compared to the Arctic?
A. Lack of scientific interest
B. Geographical constraints and sparse station network
C. Harsh weather conditions
D. High financial costs
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