@proceedings {1015, title = {Parametric Modeling and Analysis of Lightning Sferic Waveforms for D-region Remote Sensing}, year = {2026}, month = {03/2026}, publisher = {HamSCI}, address = {Newington, CT}, abstract = {

The D-region is a layer of the Earth{\textquoteright}s ionosphere that extends from an altitude of approximately 50 to 90 km. This region plays a vital role in radio frequency (RF) propagation across a wide variety of frequency bands and significantly impacts the operation of numerous aeronautical, military, radar, broadcast, and, of course, amateur radio systems. Thus, a thorough understanding of how the D-region{\textquoteright}s characteristics vary spatially and temporally is highly desirable both from a practical and scientific standpoint, as it can aid in enhancing the understanding and prediction of RF propagation and space weather events. The D-region and the Earth{\textquoteright}s surface form what is known as the Earth-ionosphere waveguide (EIWG), facilitating long-distance propagation of very low frequency (VLF) signals within this waveguide. Lightning discharges emit broadband, pulse-like VLF radiation, known as sferics, which can travel hundreds or thousands of miles in the EIWG with little degradation. The characteristics of lightning sferic waveforms are impacted by the D-region along the path of propagation between the source of the strike and the receiver. Thus, information about the state of the D-region can be extracted from received sferic waveforms, making them exceedingly useful for remote sensing of the D-region. In this work, we present an effective parameterized time-domain model of lightning sferics to aid in the analysis of the D-region. The model is then applied to large VLF datasets obtained under typical ionospheric conditions and during abnormal geophysical events. The resulting temporal and spatial variations in sferic parameters are analyzed and are shown to respond in conjunction with sudden ionospheric disturbances such as solar flares.

}, author = {Mason Matrazzo and Hunter Burch} } @proceedings {1034, title = {The Personal Space Weather Network System and Its Development}, year = {2026}, month = {03/2026}, publisher = {HamSCI}, address = {Newington, CT}, abstract = {

This talk gives an overview of the Personal Space Weather Network system : overall architecture, how uploading of data from stations works, how data is visualized and cross-referenced. It explains how to find data based on your research interests, with tips on how to work with digital_rf datasets (a large part of the collection), with examples of analysis work previously done. Finally, it includes an overview of the enhancements that are planned to be implemented over the next 2 to 3 years.

}, author = {Christian Hirschey and Gavin Ward and William Engelke and Evan Hardt and Annika Lee and Travis Atkinson} } @proceedings {1045, title = {Personal Space Weather Station Observations of the Gannon Geomagnetic Storm}, year = {2026}, month = {03/2026}, publisher = {HamSCI}, address = {Newington, CT}, abstract = {The geomagnetic storm known as the Gannon Storm took place from 10-13 May 2024. Classified as a G5 geomagnetic storm, the Gannon Storm was the most extreme event of its kind to occur in the past two decades. Space weather events of this magnitude have significant impacts on orbiting satellites, navigation systems, power grids, and communications. Particularly, geomagnetic storms are known to disrupt technologies that utilize the high frequency (HF) portion of the radio spectrum. The aim of this study is to understand the Gannon Storm{\textquoteright}s effects on HF propagation. Using the Ham Radio Science Citizen Investigation{\textquoteright}s network of personal space weather stations (PSWSs), Doppler shift data gathered during the Gannon Storm is examined and compared against data collected on days with quieter geomagnetic conditions. PSWS receivers detected elevated Doppler shifts among traveling HF signals and more interruptions to the signals than is typical. Studying the Gannon Storm{\textquoteright}s effects on HF propagation can inform how technologies that rely on these frequencies may be better equipped against similar extreme space weather events in the future.~~~}, author = {Rebecca Potter and Nathaniel Frissell and Gwyn Griffiths and Kuldeep Pandey} } @proceedings {1048, title = {Phase Coding in Digital SuperDARN Radars to Observe Oblique Scattering}, year = {2026}, month = {03/2026}, publisher = {HamSCI}, address = {Newington, CT}, abstract = {Super Dual Auroral Radar Network (SuperDARN) is a network of HF radars in the mid to high-latitude regions that observe space weather effects on the ionosphere and magnetosphere. These radars typically transmit a single frequency multi-pulse sequence in the 8-22MHz range in a monostatic configuration. Between 2019 and 2020, two radars were reconfigured at certain times to carry out bistatic operations to demonstrate detecting oblique scatter. These operations were limited to intersecting fields-of-view of both radars, and forcing one radar to be receive-only, disrupting regular radar operation. The results of these operations showed a need for a more flexible approach that is not constrained by mode or field-of-view. Since then, some radars in the network have been converted to a Software Defined Radio (SDR) based system. An SDR-based system enables greater configurability in the transmit waveform the radar uses, including the possibility to encode unique radar IDs into the pulse. Operating modes incorporating phase coding are currently in use for their increased range resolution, so phase coding an ID in the transmit pulse would not affect the normal operation of the radar. This work proposes that SuperDARN radar waveforms with phase-coded IDs could be received by low-cost SDRs similar to the PSWS Grape receivers, to study propagation and oblique scattering in the ionosphere.}, author = {Allison Pitzl and Kevin Sterne and Mike Ruohoniemi and Joseph Baker and Bharat Kunduri and Nathaniel Frissell} } @proceedings {1044, title = {A Python data analysis and synthesis toolbox for PSWS Doppler data: A time-of flight case study}, year = {2026}, month = {03/2026}, publisher = {HamSCI}, address = {Newington, CT}, abstract = {A prototype Python toolbox is available to aid HamSCI Personal Space Weather Station (PSWS) data interpretation1. The toolbox currently has two themes. First, a set of frequency- (FFT) and time-domain (autocorrelation) scripts for estimating and plotting Doppler frequency, Doppler spread and signal level of PSWS digital_RF data. For bimodal spectra an experimental script estimates Doppler of two peaks, assigns to propagation modes and tries to track even if they cross. Second, a set of scripts invoking PyLap 2D and 3D ray tracing to obtain synthetic spectrograms of one- and two-hop E and F region, low and high ray, propagation modes. Time series of take-off angle, reflection apogee and time of flight (ToF) are derived from automated PyLap simulations. Novel ToF measurements between WWV and KD7EFG, Utah, provide an interpretation challenge case study. Apogee height simulation time series show expected propagation modes, importantly showing periods with two co-propagating modes, and, by omission, suggesting when sporadic E (Es) was present. 5 MHz Es propagation, with minimal vertical height variability, and ToF of 2.12 ms, provided the benchmark to show consistent ToF measurements within 60 us. The more dynamic F region gave rise to commensurate variations in ToF. However, ToF estimates became scattered with two co-propagating modes from WWV (e.g. 5 MHz E and F). 15 MHz Es propagation showed consistent ToF of 2.19 ms from a weak signal 50 dB below one-hop F2. Fascinatingly, an interval with ToF of 14 ms reducing to 8 ms from a weak but strengthening signal was attributed, with certainty, to two-hop sidescatter using 3D PyLap simulation. One-hop via F region only occurred briefly, with correct ToF of 2.81 ms. As the 15 MHz path from WWVH opened, with a strong signal seen in Doppler shift, ToF measurements on the path from WWV, of weak two hop sidescatter, became very scattered. This case study shows the importance of being able to use PSWS Doppler analysis to interpret new ToF measurements. In conclusion, these results herald a significant advance in the HamSCI Community{\textquoteright}s ability to characterize ionospheric propagation channels. }, author = {Gwyn Griffiths and Scott Newell and Paul Elliott and Clint Turner and Brett Anderson and Michael Hauan and Rob Robinett} } @proceedings {946, title = {PACS e-Lab{\textquoteright}s Space Education Initiatives in Africa through Amateur Radio on the International Space Station}, year = {2025}, month = {03/2025}, publisher = {HamSCI}, address = {Newark, NJ}, abstract = {

The Amateur Radio on the International Space Station (ARISS) event allows students and the public to connect directly with astronauts aboard the ISS via amateur radio, engaging in live Q\&A sessions about space science, life in space, and current missions. This initiative aims to inspire interest in STEM fields through real-time interactions with space professionals.
This project has been around since 2001 and has been widely utilized by entities in developed countries for educational purposes. In Africa, only a handful of entities in Africa have participated especially in Morocco and South. It was recently discovered by the Pan-African Citizen Science e-Lab (PACS e-Lab) team.
PACS e-Lab is a nonprofit educational platform dedicated to promoting astronomy and space science in Africa through hands-on projects, advancing space exploration, and enhancing space education and outreach.
We applied for the ARISS event, and our application was accepted. We are now preparing to host it across the continent between January and June 2025. PACS e-Lab is also leading efforts to expand the program across Africa, providing guidance to educational and space institutions on the application process and ensuring the success of the event, at no cost.
At the 2025 HamSCI Workshop, we will discuss our preparations and how we are leading the ARISS campaign in Africa.

}, author = {Miracle Chibuzor Marcel} } @proceedings {943, title = {The Physical Nature of Sporadic-E}, year = {2025}, month = {03/2025}, publisher = {HamSCI}, address = {Newark, NJ}, abstract = {

Sporadic-E is different from other forms of ionospheric propagation, regularly supporting long distance contacts well into the VHF range. It{\textquoteright}s also well-known to be really hard to predict, with signals that are highly unstable and localised. But why? What is it about the physical properties of sporadic-E layers that drive that propagation behaviour? This presentation will explain what is currently known about the physical nature of sporadic-E, introducing a range of techniques for investigating the ionosphere along the way.

}, author = {Chris Deacon} } @proceedings {938, title = {Post-sunset sporadic F propagation: A sign of electron density isopleth convergence?}, year = {2025}, month = {03/2025}, publisher = {HamSCI}, address = {Newark, NJ}, abstract = {

Reception of WSPR spots enables alerts of propagation anomalies such as the outlier Doppler shifts on 14 MHz seen across North America during a post-sunset Travelling Ionospheric Disturbance on 26 July 2024. For an hour this event opened one-hop paths and added two-hop propagation to already-open one-hop paths. For analysis and interpretation I used the multiband milliHertz precision Doppler measurements of WWV at HamSCI RX888 station N8GA as it showed one- and two-hop signals. Two-hop propagation began 4 minutes after an inflexion on the fall-from-peak of one-hop Doppler. The prior rise from 0.5 Hz to 0.8 Hz took 8 minutes. After the inflexion the fall back to 0.5 Hz took 22 minutes, with a distorted flat top. If Doppler shift was solely attributable to advection, reflecting region vertical motion, crest to trough height reduction was ~69 km. However, it is not clear how electron density isopleth advection could increase electron density, hence critical frequency, to allow two-hop propagation. If part of the Doppler arose from the plausible, but less often considered, convergence of electron density isopleths a reasonable hypothesis is that electron density could, temporarily, be sufficiently enhanced to support two-hop propagation. To try and identify the two Doppler sources I examined the LF and HF skirts of the two-hop Doppler spectrum immediately on the appearance of great circle propagation with its narrow spectral peak. The skirts, 13 dB to 25 dB below the peak, were from forward-scattered paths. I modeled Doppler shift on forward-scattered paths using 3D PyLap ray tracing and assumed pseudo-reciprocity. On these longer than great circle paths Doppler shift was less for the same reflection height change. This simple model suggests that Doppler on forward-scattered paths explained the LF skirt but not the HF skirt. Rather than simply attributing the HF skirt to convergence I consider other methods to test the assumption of advection only. Future studies may need to explicitly test whether attributing the Doppler shift purely to advection is warranted.\ 

}, author = {Gwyn Griffiths} } @proceedings {945, title = {Predictive Implications of Space Weather on Quantum Network Functionality}, year = {2025}, month = {03/2025}, publisher = {HamSCI}, address = {Newark, NJ}, abstract = {

Quantum communication networks leverage the unique quantum-mechanical properties of photons to enable secure communications and advanced sensing capabilities. Precision distributed timing and polarization compensation, which must be maintained within stringent tolerances, are critical for enabling quantum network protocols such as Bell state distribution. Previous studies have demonstrated that environmental factors significantly impact network performance in these critical areas. Motivated by unusual observations during the 2024 total solar eclipse on DC-QNet---a quantum network testbed in the national capital region---this research aims to quantify the effect of space weather phenomena on quantum network performance. In this preliminary study, we analyze daily geomagnetic data, 10.7 cm radio flux, and sunspot numbers as predictors in correlation and regression analyses. These analyses use daily aggregated data related to White Rabbit time synchronization errors from several DC-QNet experiments. Initial results suggest that some space weather indicators, such as radio flux and sunspot numbers, exhibit moderate correlation with time synchronization errors over a single, predominantly aerial fiber optic link. However, higher-resolution magnetometer and X-ray flux data show negligible correlation, even after various data transformations. Additionally, model performance is weak across the board, with general linear model assumptions violated in most cases. These findings demonstrate the complexity of linking space weather fluctuations to quantum network performance and suggest that other environmental or operational factors may play a more significant role.

}, author = {Brett Martin and Douglas Hodson and Michael Grimalia and Torrey Wagner} } @proceedings {816, title = {Personal Space Weather Network, Status Report}, year = {2024}, month = {03/2024}, publisher = {HamSCI}, address = {Cleveland, OH}, author = {William D. Engelke} } @proceedings {829, title = {Plans to Observe Changes to the Ionosphere During the April 8 Eclipse Using Doppler Shifts of AM Broadcast Stations}, year = {2024}, month = {03/2024}, publisher = {HamSCI}, address = {Cleveland, OH}, abstract = {

Variations in the ionosphere can be tracked by observing the Doppler-shifted carriers of clear-channel AM broadcast stations.\  An expansive system of receivers using Software-Defined Radios, frequency stabilized by GPS is being deployed to collect data in the eastern United States.\  This network is expected to be able to detect and track changes due to the shadow of the April 8, 2024 Total Eclipse of the Sun.

}, author = {David McGaw and James LaBelle and John Griffin and Terrence Kovacs and Margaret Klein and Jack Bonneau and Justin Lewis and Jackson Gosler} } @proceedings {836, title = {Possible Drivers of Large Scale Traveling Ionospheric Disturbances by Analysis of Aggregated Ham Radio Contacts}, year = {2024}, month = {03/2024}, publisher = {HamSCI}, address = {Cleveland, OH}, abstract = {

Large Scale Traveling Ionospheric Disturbances (LSTIDs) are quasiperiodic electron density perturbations of the F region ionosphere that have periods of 30 min to over 180 min, wavelengths of over 1000 km, and velocities of 150 to 1000 m/s. These are seen as long slow oscillations in the bottom side of the ionosphere in data from ham radio contacts at 20 meters wavelength on roughly a third of the days in a year. They might be triggered by electromagnetic forces from above, and/or by mechanical pressures from below. The explosion of the Tonga volcano on January 15, 2022 revealed that such a LSTID could be triggered by a violent updraft from the Earth{\textquoteright}s surface into the stratosphere and then detected in the ionosphere over the United States nine hours later. We consider other possible drivers such as the auroral electrojet, the polar vortex, thunderstorms, zonal wind speeds, gravity wave variances, and their time derivatives in 2017.

}, author = {Diego Sanchez and Mary Lou West and Nathaniel A. Frissell and Gareth W. Perry and William D. Engelke and Robert B. Gerzoff and Philip J. Erickson and J. Michael Ruohoniemi and Joseph B. H. Baker and V. Lynn Harvey} } @proceedings {867, title = {PyLAP/PHaRLAP HF Ray Tracing and SAMI3: Integration and Refactoring}, year = {2024}, month = {03/2024}, publisher = {HamSCI}, address = {Cleveland, OH}, abstract = {

PyLAP is a high frequency (HF) ray tracing toolkit that is used to model radio wave propagation through the ionosphere. Currently PyLAP uses the empirical International Reference Ionosphere (IRI) model. In an effort to use PyLAP to observe more discrete structures in ionosphere that are otherwise unobservable with IRI, PyLAP is being Integrated with the Physics-based SAMI3 Model of the ionosphere. Along with this there will be an effort to refactor some of the current PyLAP codebase so that it is more readable and usable for anyone using the current system including both professional and citizen scientists.

}, author = {Devin Diehl and Rachel Boedicker and Joseph Huba and Nathaniel A. Frissell} } @proceedings {688, title = {Personal Space Weather Station Central Control and Database System}, year = {2023}, month = {03/2023}, publisher = {HamSCI}, address = {Scranton, PA}, abstract = {

As part of the Personal Space Weather Station (PSWS) project, our team has been developing the Central Control System and Central Database System that will be used to collect and store the data generated by the stations. The Central Control System functionality is being developed using Django, a Python based web framework. It is used to define how users will interact with the web server where their collected data will be uploaded, organized, and analyzed. It is also used to define models for the data being collected and how it will be stored in the Central Database System. In the server{\textquoteright}s current state, users can register accounts and stations as well as view lists of uploaded observations. Observation data can also be downloaded individually for analysis. The availability of the PSWS will allow a much larger sample of data to be collected daily. With this data, more accurate models of the ionosphere can be created, granting a better ability to predict how radio waves will be precisely affected by the ionosphere at any given moment and supporting ionospheric science.

}, author = {Anderson B. Liddle and Nicholas Muscalino and William D. Engleke and Travis Atkison} } @proceedings {729, title = {The potential of HamSCI Doppler Observations for inferring Solar Flare Effects on the Ionosphere}, year = {2023}, month = {03/2023}, publisher = {HamSCI}, address = {Scranton, PA}, abstract = {

A solar flare is a space weather event that causes a transient in the ionospheric system at sub-auroral, middle, and lower latitudes, commonly known as the solar flare effect (SFE). Sudden enhancement in high-frequency (HF) absorption is a well-known impact of solar flare-driven Short-Wave Fadeout (SWF). Less understood, is a perturbation of the radio wave frequency as it traverses the lower ionosphere in the early stages of SWF, also known as the Doppler flash. SuperDARN radar network is typically used to study the Doppler flash. Previous investigations have suggested two possible sources that might contribute to the manifestation of Doppler flash: first, enhancements of plasma density in the D and lower E-regions; second, the lowering of the reflection point in the F-region. HamSCI is a platform that publicizes and promotes scientific research and understanding through amateur radio activities in the HF band. Studies have shown that solar flare-driven HF absorption can affect amateur radio signal strength. Recent development showed that the HamSCI Doppler observations can provide insight into the physics behind changes in phase path length of the trans ionospheric radio signals. In this study, we will demonstrate how HamSCI Doppler observations can be used to infer flare-driven changes in the ionospheric properties and associated Doppler flash. Furthermore, if successful the study will also quantify Doppler flash recorded in HamSCI as a function of flare strength, flare location on the solar disk, operating frequency, and location on the Earth. Upon successful quantification of Doppler flash, we will compare its properties with previous studies that used SuperDARN observations.

}, author = {Shibaji Chakraborty and Kristina Collins} } @proceedings {745, title = {Power Factor Detection and Correction of a Variable Speed AC motor}, year = {2023}, month = {03/2023}, publisher = {HamSCI}, address = {Scranton, PA}, author = {Christian Chakirus and Robert Brudnicki and Robert Troy and Kenneth Dudeck} } @proceedings {699, title = {Project HALO: An Effort to Provide Continuous Meteorological Observations of the April 8th, 2024 Total Solar Eclipse}, year = {2023}, month = {03/2023}, publisher = {HamSCI}, address = {Scranton, PA}, abstract = {

Project HALO aims to provide continuous meteorological monitoring of the total solar eclipse on April 8th, 2024. The project{\textquoteright}s preliminary goals are to determine whether or not the boundary layer temperature inversion generated by the eclipse can be considered a function of latitude. To complete this endeavor, we seek to create a network of observation teams to collect data on the day of the eclipse. We hope to provide a space for a discussion on interest, logistics, and the possibility of expanding the scope of the project to potentially include the monitoring of the solar corona, atmospheric compositional dynamics, and other topics of interest. Since the project will still be in its planning phase, not all details will be determined by the time of the conference.

}, author = {Wesley Taylor and Allison Krantz and Joshua Kinsky and Nichole Behrenhauser and Alex Colgate and Melodie Martinez-Manahan} } @proceedings {757, title = {PyLap: An Open Source Python Interface to the PHaRLAP Ionospheric Raytracing Toolkit}, year = {2023}, month = {03/2023}, publisher = {HamSCI}, address = {Scranton, PA}, abstract = {

PyLap is a Python interface to the ionospheric ray tracing toolkit PHaRLAP. The software allows users to generate accurate models of the ionosphere and ray tracing to make plots of radio propagation through the ionosphere. Not only does this software look, feel, and operate very similarly to how the MATLAB interface is currently used, it is also completely free alternative to the current MATLAB interface.

}, author = {Devin Diehl and Gerard Piccini and Alexander Calderon and Joshua Vega and William Liles and Nathaniel A. Frissell} } @proceedings {649, title = {PHaRLAP: Provision of High-frequency Ray tracing LAboratory for Propagation studies}, year = {2022}, month = {03/2022}, publisher = {HamSCI}, address = {Huntsville, AL}, abstract = {

PHaRLAP is a MATLAB-based toolbox created by Australia{\textquoteright}s Defence Science and Technology Group for studying and modelling HF radio wave propagation through the Earth{\textquoteright}s ionosphere. It provides a variety of ray tracing engines and necessary supporting routines. The ray tracing engines include full 3D magneto-ionic numerical ray tracing (3D NRT), 2D numerical ray tracing (2D NRT) and analytic ray tracing (ART). Propagation losses, focusing/defocusing, ionospheric absorption, ground forward scatter and backscatter losses, backscatter due to field aligned irregularities, O-X mode splitting (including power coupled into each mode) are\ all able to be modelled. This presentation describes PHaRLAP and gives examples of its use to solve real-world problems.

}, author = {Manuel Cervera} } @proceedings {636, title = {Porting the MUSIC Algorithm to the SuperDARN pyDARN Library for the Study of Traveling Ionospheric Disturbances}, year = {2022}, month = {03/2022}, publisher = {HamSCI}, address = {Huntsville, AL}, abstract = {

Medium Scale Traveling Ionospheric Disturbances (MSTIDs) are quasi-periodic variations of the F-region ionosphere with periods of 15 to 60 minutes and horizontal wavelengths of a few hundred kilometers that are often associated with atmospheric gravity waves (AGWs). Understanding differences in characteristics such as wavelength, period, and propagation direction between MSTIDs populations in the northern and southern hemisphere can lead to a better understanding of MSTID sources and upper atmospheric dynamics. Previous studies have used SuperDARN radars to observe MSTIDs and determine these characteristics using an implementation of the multiple signal classification (MUSIC) algorithm. In this presentation, we port the MUSIC implementation written in Python 2 for use with the deprecated SuperDARN Data and Visualization Toolkit python (DaViTpy) to Python 3 for use with the current pyDARN library. This implementation will be used to study the differences between MSTID populations observed by SuperDARN radars in both the Northern and Southern hemispheres.

}, author = {Francis Tholley and Nathaniel A. Frissell and William Liles} } @proceedings {637, title = {Potential Science Opportunities for HamSCI in Antarctica}, year = {2022}, month = {03/2022}, publisher = {HamSCI}, address = {Huntsville, AL}, abstract = {

The maturation and proliferation of passive radio receivers based on software defined radio principles and architecture herald a new era of radio remote sensing in solar-terrestrial physics. Antarctica is a region of interest for deploying HF radio receivers for many reasons. The significant offset of the geographic and magnetic poles allows one to study multiple terrestrial magnetosphere-ionosphere-thermosphere regions of interest, e.g., the polar, auroral, and sub-auroral zones, using ground-based instruments. Additionally, the significant snow and ice coverage in Antarctica is a strong absorber of HF radio waves. This severely mitigates intracontinental multi-hop propagation modes, which may be advantageous for geolocating geophysical features detected by HF radio techniques, thereby improving remote sensing performance. In this poster presentation, we will analyze a case of a QSO between two operators, captured by a receiver located at McMurdo Station in Antarctica. We will discuss the signal characteristics of each transmission and pay particularly close attention to how variations in the CW transmissions may be linked to geophysical processes occurring in the region at the time. The overarching goal of this presentation is to incite discussion on how existing and future passive HF receiving systems in Antarctica can leveraged to advance not only the art of radio but solar-terrestrial physics in Antarctica.

}, author = {Gareth W. Perry and Nathaniel A. Frissell} } @proceedings {635, title = {Preliminary Analysis of WWV Experimental Tone Signals}, year = {2022}, month = {03/2022}, publisher = {HamSCI}, address = {Huntsville, AL}, abstract = {

NIST Time station WWV and WWVH have recently been broadcasting a set of audio modulation signals designed by the WWV/H Scientific Modulation Group as an initial exploration of possibilities for using these powerful and ubiquitous time distribution HF transmissions as remote sensing diagnostics of the terrestrial ionosphere.\  Included audio modulations include pseudorandom white noise, swept chirps, controlled amplitude sequences, and single pulses.\  The first task in assessing feasibility for remote sensing is to analyze characteristics of the analog WWV transmitters themselves, in order to gauge the transfer function imposed on the original test transmission.\  Using ground wave recordings from a GNSS locked receiver station maintained by Glenn Elmore N6GN, we present preliminary transmitter-centric analysis of WWV experimental tone signals, focusing on amplitude fidelity, transmission delay, cross-ambiguity examination of frequency and amplitude stability, and pseudorandom noise determinations of audio passband shape.

}, author = {Ethan S. Miller and William Liles and Philip J Erickson} } @proceedings {622, title = {Properties and Drivers of Plasma Irregularities in the High-Latitude Ionosphere Computed using Novel Incoherent Scatter Radar Techniques}, year = {2022}, month = {03/2022}, publisher = {HamSCI}, address = {Huntsville, AL}, abstract = {

To provide new insights into the relationship between geomagnetic conditions and plasma irregularity scale-sizes, high-latitude irregularity spectra are computed using novel Incoherent Scatter Radar (ISR) techniques. This new technique leverages: 1) the ability of phased array Advanced Modular ISR (AMISR) technology to collect volumetric measurements of plasma density, 2) the slow F-region cross-field plasma diffusion at scales greater than 10 km, and 3) the high dip angle of geomagnetic field lines at high-latitudes. The resulting irregularity spectra are of a higher spatiotemporal resolution than has been previously possible with ISRs. Spatial structures as small as 20 km are resolved in less than two minutes (depending on the radar mode). In this work, we focus on Resolute Bay ISR observations operating in high-beam modes, such as the imaginglp mode. In addition to having an unprecedented view of the size and occurrence of irregularities as they traverse the polar cap, we find that near magnetic local noon the spectral power shifts to scales greater than 50 km, and from 15 to 5 magnetic local time the spectral power shifts to structures less than 50 km. This either reflects the role of polar cap convection in breaking down structures as they travel from the dayside ionosphere to the nightside, or the role of photoionization "smoothing" the dayside ionosphere. Additionally, during periods of enhanced geomagnetic conditions, such as periods with low AL indices, the spectral power shifts to structures 50 km and larger. This presentation will discuss these findings, as well as show seasonal variations.

}, author = {Lindsay V. Goodwin and Gareth W. Perry} } @proceedings {487, title = {Plasma Bubble and Blob Events in the F-region Ionosphere}, year = {2021}, month = {03/2021}, publisher = {HamSCI}, address = {Scranton, PA (Virtual)}, abstract = {

The equatorial plasma bubbles (EPBs) and plasma blobs (enhancements) are, in general, the nighttime phenomena of ionospheric plasma irregularities in the F-region ionosphere. This study presents plasma bubble and blob events identified from the SWARM satellite constellation when it flies above the American continent. We have also simultaneously examined the behavior of total electron content (TEC), its depletions, and enhancements in the equatorial/low/mid-latitude F-region ionosphere detected from ground-based Global Positioning System (GPS) receivers in the American sector. The in situ observations of bubble and blob events are concurrently supported by GPS-TEC measurement from the ground. Additionally, the coordinated ground- and satellite-based observations indicate that the ground-based data show the variability of the background ionosphere prior, during, and later than the development time of the EPBs as seen by the SWARM. For this limited analysis, the plasma blob events are mostly seen at/nearby mid-latitude regions. Finally, we discuss the possible mechanism of the generation, evolution, and relationship between EPBs and plasma blobs in the F-region ionosphere.

}, url = {https://hamsci2021-uscranton.ipostersessions.com/?s=51-F0-AC-9D-0C-7E-D9-A3-FC-F1-2E-13-F2-6E-34-90}, author = {Sovit Khadka and Cesar Valladares and Andrew Gerrard} } @proceedings {460, title = {Preliminary Data Analysis of PSWS Magnetometer Data}, year = {2021}, month = {03/2021}, publisher = {HamSCI}, address = {Scranton, PA (Virtual)}, abstract = {

We report on the preliminary analysis of data obtained from newly developed magnetometers as part of HamSCI Personal Space Weather Station (PSWS) project. These systems are designed to provide quantitative and qualitative measurements of the geospace environment from the ground for both scientific and operational purposes at a cost that will allow for crowd-sourced data contributions. The PSWS magnetometers employ low-cost, commercial off-the-shelf, magneto-inductive sensor technology to record three-axis magnetic field variations with an adequate field resolution of ~10 nT at a 1 Hz sample rate. Data from the PSWS network will combine these magnetometer measurements with high frequency (HF, 3-30 MHz) radio observations to monitor large-scale current systems and ionospheric disturbances due to drivers from both space and the atmosphere. A densely-spaced magnetometer array, once established, will demonstrate their space weather monitoring capability in unprecedented spatial extent. Magnetic field data obtained by the magnetometers installed at three locations across the US are presented and compared with the existing magnetometers nearby.\ 

}, author = {Hyomin Kim and Julius Madey and David M. Witten II and David Larsen and Scott H. Cowling and Nathaniel A. Frissell and James Weygand} } @proceedings {481, title = {prop.kc2g.com: Developing an Open-Source HF Propagation Prediction Tool}, year = {2021}, month = {03/2021}, publisher = {HamSCI}, address = {Scranton, PA (Virtual)}, abstract = {

prop.kc2g.com is a website with the goal of making HF conditions visible at a glance and helping amateurs choose times and frequencies for contacts. The creator will give some highlights of the site{\textquoteright}s genesis and evolution from 2018 to 2021 and explore the mathematical techniques used to combine live observational data with a computerized ionospheric model to get the benefits of both.

}, url = {https://hamsci2021-uscranton.ipostersessions.com/?s=DB-5E-7A-B1-18-CB-2F-57-74-F3-84-EA-E5-DD-AB-D8}, author = {Andrew Rodland} } @proceedings {516, title = {PSWS Grape Hardware: The Second Generation}, year = {2021}, month = {03/2021}, publisher = {HamSCI}, address = {Scranton, PA (Virtual)}, abstract = {

A review of the Grape Version 2 architecture and current progress.

}, author = {John C. Gibbons} } @proceedings {498, title = {PSWS Grape Hardware: Version 1.0 and Pilot Experiments}, year = {2021}, month = {03/2021}, publisher = {HamSCI}, address = {Scranton, PA (Virtual)}, abstract = {

One year into our NSF grant, HamSCI{\textquoteright}s Low-Cost Personal Space Weather Station is undergoing rapid development. Like its namesake, the "Grape" does its best work in bunches, and several early prototypes are already deployed and collecting Doppler data. This talk will present the Grape 1.0 hardware, the data collected by pilot stations, and the lessons this platform has taught us as we move to Grape 2.0.

}, author = {Kristina V. Collins and John Gibbons and David Kazdan} } @proceedings {500, title = {PSWS Ground Magnetometer Hardware}, year = {2021}, month = {03/2021}, publisher = {HamSCI}, address = {Scranton, PA (Virtual)}, abstract = {

The path from candidate device for the magnetometer function of the PSWS to practical affordable working 24/7 data collection installations based on the low cost and readily available PNI RM3100 magneto-inductive sensor is discussed.\  Initial support board design using i2c bus connection to the host Odroid or Raspberry Pi class microprocessors with support for remote extension of the sensor to at least 100 feet with common CAT5 networking cable will be described as well as the accompanying test and logging software.\  Details of initial testing which revealed the need for temperature stabilization of the RM3100, verified remote operation to at least 500 feet, the subsequent design of an in-ground sensor housing made from common PVC water pipe and fittings and refinement of the microprocessor adapter board and remote board will be presented.

}, author = {Julius Madey and David Witten, II and Hyomin Kim and David Larsen and Scott H. Cowling and Nathaniel A. Frissell} } @proceedings {563, title = {PSWS Magnetometer Science Update}, year = {2021}, month = {09/2021}, publisher = {ARRL-TAPR}, address = {Virtual}, url = {https://youtu.be/MHkz7jNynOg?t=4555}, author = {Kim, Hyomin and Madey, Julius and Witten, David and Larsen, David R. and Cowling, Scott H. and Frissell, Nathaniel A. and Weygand, James} } @conference {400, title = {Patterns in Received Noise: Methods, Observations and Questions (ePoster)}, booktitle = {HamSCI Workshop 2020}, year = {2020}, month = {03/2020}, publisher = {HamSCI}, organization = {HamSCI}, address = {Scranton, PA}, abstract = {

There are valid concerns that local noise, often as common mode, is an increasing problem for radio amateurs. By adding two noise measurement algorithms to a robust Weak Signal Propagation Reporter (WSPR) processing and reporting package\ -\ wsprdaemon\ -\ we now have the capability to record and share noise level measurements from over twenty amateur stations. With locations from Maui to Moscow, and ranging from very quiet rural Northern California, Utah, and Austria to more typical suburban noise environments we have observed a multitude of patterns in received noise on the LF to HF bands (136 kHz to 28 MHz). These patterns show clearly where and when the local noise floor becomes a limiting factor. More intriguingly, we have observed coherent fluctuations in the noise over periods of hours at a pair stations 1000 km apart. Now with observations from a {\textquoteright}diamond{\textquoteright} of four stations we can look in more detail at the timing of these coherent fluctuations. With over six months of observations every two minutes from several stations we can show systematic seasonal variations in the daily noise patterns. We think we understand the root causes of some of the features, such as the local noon minimum and the post-sunset maximum in late spring and summer. However, we have yet to reach a satisfactory understanding for some patterns, including a transition to a daytime noise maximum in autumn. The challenging task of calibration to a field strength in free space will not be ignored, but for this presentation it will be set aside as we concentrate on patterns and not absolute noise levels. This presentation will outline the noise measurement methods, show examples of noise patterns from several stations, introduce the on-line database and its Grafana interface that delegates will be able to explore, and we will seek comments, insights and suggestions as to causes for the patterns and next steps for this collaborative effort.

}, author = {Gwyn Griffiths and Rob Robinett and Glenn Elmore and Clint Turner and Tom Bunch and Dennis Benischek} } @conference {386, title = {Propagation Teepee: A High Frequency (HF) Radio Spectral Feature Identified by Citizen Scientists}, booktitle = {HamSCI Workshop}, year = {2020}, month = {03/2020}, publisher = {HamSCI}, organization = {HamSCI}, address = {Scranton, PA}, abstract = {

We report on the observations of a high frequency (HF) spectral feature that appears often in ground-based spectral data at 15-30 MHz.The feature, likely of terrestrial origin, is often recorded by a group of amateur radio astronomers, the Spectrograph User Group (SUG), whose main interest is in observing radio emissions from Jupiter. The feature appears as spectral enhancements with the frequency of enhancement first increasing and then decreasing with time, resulting in a {\textquotedblleft}triangular spectral feature.{\textquotedblright} Its shape is reminiscent of teepee tents (or TPs for short), the moveable dwellings of some groups of native-Americans. TPs usually have sharp or well-defined upper frequency limits for both the leading and trailing edges. While some TPs are observed in isolation, they are often seen in groups, distributed either in time or in frequency as a nested group at a particular time. Most TPs appear to be diffuse even at high time resolution, but a few TPs seen at high time resolution reveal that those TPs consist actually of discrete bursts, strongly suggestive that the band noise produced from lightning as possible radiation sources of the TPs. In this paper, we investigate the possible generation of TPs as a result of ionospheric reflection of band noise produced by remote lightning storms.

}, author = {S. F. Fung and D. Typinski and R. F. Flagg and T. Ashcraft and W. Greenman and C. Higgins and J. Brown and L. Dodd and A. S. Mount and F. J. Reyes and J. Sky and J. Thieman and L. N. Garcia} } @proceedings {436, title = {PSWS Control Software and Database}, year = {2020}, month = {09/2020}, publisher = {ARRL-TAPR}, address = {Virtual}, url = {https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n9p0FpZkxE4}, author = {Engelke, William D.} } @conference {291, title = {Plans for EclipseMob 2024}, booktitle = {HamSCI Workshop 2019}, year = {2019}, month = {03/2019}, publisher = {HamSCI}, organization = {HamSCI}, address = {Cleveland, OH}, abstract = {

During the 2017 solar eclipse, the EclipseMob project conducted a collaborative effort to crowdsource a large-scale geographically distributed measurement of LF radio wave propagation. Do-it-yourself antenna and receiver kits were distributed to libraries, schools, and citizen scientists across the United States, paired with a smartphone app that provided data recording and software-defined radio functionality. While the data collection was ultimately not successful because of a problem with the receiver-smartphone interface, the EclipseMob crowdsourced measurement model still has the potential to make a valuable contribution to the study of the iono- sphere. The availability of low-cost electronic components and modern GPS-based location services presents an opportunity to coordinate nationwide radio measurements that can be performed by hobbyists, students, educators and other citizen scientists. At present, EclipseMob is actively planning for the 2024 eclipse in the eastern United States. The EclipseMob kit will be redesigned for the 2024 eclipse, both to address the previous kit{\textquoteright}s issues and to accommodate recent changes in smartphone technology such as the elimination of the headphone jack on many newer phone models. EclipseMob also envisions a much larger data collection effort in 2024, so outreach, recruitment, and training efforts will need to be conducted on a much larger scale. This talk will discuss how we plan to address some of the logistical and outreach challenges faced by the new, expanded incarnation of EclipseMob.

}, author = {J. Ayala and K. C. Kerby-Patel and William Liles and H. McElderry and J. Nelson and L. Lukes} } @conference {333, title = {The Polar Environment Atmospheric Research Laboratory (PEARL) and VY0ERC: Atmospheric Science and Ham Radio at 80N (Booth Talk)}, booktitle = {Dayton Hamvention}, year = {2019}, month = {05/2019}, publisher = {HamSCI}, organization = {HamSCI}, address = {Xenia, OH}, abstract = {

Located at 80N, 86W on Ellesmere Island (IOTA NA-008) in the far north of Canada is the Polar Environment Atmospheric Research Laboratory (PEARL) .\  PEARL has been in operation since 2005 and consists of 3 distinct atmospheric observatories housing\  instrumentation that sounds the atmosphere from the ground to approximately 100 km altitude.\  PEARL measurements are mostly aimed at determining atmospheric composition through\  the measurement of solar and atmospheric radiation, atmospheric particles, and signals from lidars and radars.\  Located within the PEARL Ridge Laboratory (PRL) is the Eureka Amateur Radio Club station VY0ERC.\  VY0ERC has been on the air since 2015 and is operated mainly by PEARL scientists VE1RUS and VE3KTB.\ 

}, author = {Pierre Fogal} } @conference {335, title = {Propagation on 630m and 2200m (Booth Talk)}, booktitle = {Dayton Hamvention}, year = {2019}, month = {05/2019}, publisher = {HamSCI}, organization = {HamSCI}, address = {Xenia,OH}, abstract = {

Propagation on 630m and 2200m: Our two new bands provide interesting propagation opportunities. Ionospheric absorption, polarization and refraction will be reviewed on these bands, and compared to 160m and HF (3-30 MHz). General guidelines will be given to enhance your experience on 630m and 2200m.\ \ 

}, author = {Carl Luetzelschwab} } @conference {315, title = {PSWS Science Requirements Panel Discussion (Panel)}, booktitle = {HamSCI Workshop 2019}, year = {2019}, month = {03/2019}, publisher = {HamSCI}, organization = {HamSCI}, address = {Cleveland, OH}, abstract = {

Moderator: Ward Silver, N0AX

  1. Phil Erickson, W1PJE, MIT Haystack Observatory, Radio, Ionospheric, \& Magnetospheric Science
  2. Nathaniel Frissell, W2NAF, NJIT, Radio, Ionospheric, \& Magnetospheric Science
  3. Hyomin Kim, KD2MCR, NJIT, Magnetospheric Physics
  4. Bill Liles, NQ6Z, VLF Science
  5. John Ackermann, N8UR, TAPR, Radio Engineering
  6. Scotty Cowling, WA2DFI, TAPR, Radio Engineering
  7. Tom McDermott, N5EG, TAPR, Radio Engineering
}, author = {John Ackermann and Scotty Cowling and Philip J. Erickson and Nathaniel A. Frissell and Hyomin Kim and William Liles and Thomas McDermott and Ward Silver} } @article {257, title = {The Personal Space Weather Station}, volume = {102}, year = {2018}, month = {04/2018}, pages = {38-41}, issn = {0033-4812}, url = {http://www.arrl.org/qst}, author = {H. Ward Silver} } @conference {218, title = {Practical investigation of the polarisation of 50MHz signals}, booktitle = {HamSCI-UK}, year = {2017}, month = {10/2017}, publisher = {HamSCI-UK}, organization = {HamSCI-UK}, address = {Milton Keynes, UK}, author = {C. Deacon} }