Speaker
Description
A regional three-dimensional (3D) ionospheric model developed by the INGV Upper Atmosphere Physics and Radiopropagation Unit, has been developed for real-time monitoring over the Italian territory. The model combines a climatological background with real-time data ingestion from multiple ionosondes to reconstruct high-fidelity electron density profiles. Based on the Advanced Ionospheric Profiler (AIP) technique, the system adaptively corrects empirical parameters by minimizing the root-mean-square deviation between modeled and observed plasma frequency profiles. Testing conducted during both geomagnetically quiet and disturbed periods using the data of Rome, Gibilmanna, and San Vito dei Normanni stations has demonstrated high adaptability and significant accuracy improvements over standard climatological models. The modeling domain covers the Italian region, spanning approximately 6° to 19° longitude and 36° to 47.5° . Key outputs include real-time maps of critical frequencies foF2, 3D electron density distributions, and simulated ionogram traces suitable for nowcasting and HF propagation applications. Validations during moderate geomagnetic storms show that the model achieves better accuracy than the Solar Wind driven (SWIF) model, providing a reliable tool for estimating ionospheric conditions for technological and scientific purposes. The system's low processing latency and dynamic assimilation capabilities make it possible asset for regional space weather services
| Numerical model | RAIM3D |
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