Perspectives on updated ƒoF2 maps for IRI Original Research Article

The separate uses of the electron-density element of the IRI for aeronomy studies and as aids to telecommunications planningand operation are briefly reviewed. In these respective roles it is confirmed that both near-real-time (‘nowcast’) and long-term smoothed models are needed. Requirements for global and regional ionosphere models are considered. The F2-region peak density, proportional to critical frequency ƒoF22, is a key model parameter and how accurately electron densities are determined over all F-region heights is critically dependent on how well this quantity can be estimated for different places and times. Present available ƒoF2 long-term prediction maps are described and the needs and potential for updating these are addressed. Options for the generation of nowcast regional models based on the use of the IRI are also examined.