The ionosphere is the part of the Earth’s upper atmosphere where free electrons and ions are present in quantities sufficient to affect the propagation of radio waves. It is a highly dynamic medium that exhibits significant weather variations with altitude, latitude, longitude, local time, solar cycle, season, and geomagnetic activity. 

Understanding ionospheric variability is essential for improving the reliability of satellite-based technologies, including navigation, communication and positioning systems. In addition, Global Navigation Satellite Systems (GNSS)-based ionospheric monitoring provides a valuable tool for studying the impact of space weather on the Earth's ionosphere. Exploiting GNSS data analysis can therefore help to overcome current limitations in modelling ionospheric behaviour, supporting both scientific research and practical applications.

The workshop will provide an introduction to GNSS, physics of the ionosphere, and space weather along with its effects on such technological systems. Emphasis will be placed on the use of GNSS data for ionospheric monitoring and modelling, particularly through the analysis of ionospheric Total Electron Content (TEC).

 

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