What is the Ionosphere?
The ionosphere is the region of the upper atmosphere (roughly 60–1000 km) where solar EUV and X-rays ionize atoms and molecules, creating free electrons and ions. It is divided into D, E, and F layers (by altitude and ionization). The ionosphere reflects certain radio waves and affects GPS, satellite links, and radio navigation.
Space Weather Effects
Solar flares increase X-ray and EUV flux; the ionosphere responds within minutes, causing sudden ionospheric disturbances and radio blackouts. Geomagnetic storms (from CMEs or fast solar wind) disturb the ionosphere indirectly through electric fields and particle precipitation, leading to GPS errors and radio scintillation. Cosmic Radar shows Kp and space weather events so you can relate ionospheric effects to solar and geomagnetic activity.
Sources and further reading
- NOAA SWPC – Ionospheric disturbances and space weather
- ESA – The ionosphere – Ionosphere structure
- NASA – Ionosphere – Ionosphere and solar influence