Title:  The Estimation of D-region Electron Densities Using Trans-Ionospheric VLF Signals

Committee: 

Dr. Cohen, Advisor        

Dr. Steffes, Chair

Dr. Simon

Abstract:

The objective of the proposed research is to develop a new technique for estimating ionospheric D-region electron densities using satellite measurements of trans-ionospheric VLF signals originating from high-powered transmitters. Because of the high altitude and relatively low electron densities found in the D-region, few reliable methods exist for making measurements in this part of the ionosphere. The proposed technique will leverage the fact that VLF radio waves, unlike higher frequency waves used for similar remote sensing applications, are sensitive to the relatively low electron densities in D-region. Techniques have been discussed in the literature for estimating D-region electron densities using ground-based measurements of signals from VLF transmitters or atmospheric lightening. The proposed technique will add to the list of available methods for estimating D-region electron densities, provide additional corroboration for existing methods, and perhaps demonstrate additional evidence of ionospheric modification by VLF transmitters.