Comparisons of foF2 with IRI model and equatorial vertical drifts Original Research Article

Measurements of the critical frequency, foF2 recorded over Ibadan: 7.4°N, 3.9°E (geographic), 6°S (dip angle) have been compared with the International Reference Ionosphere (IRI-2007) model for solar maximum geomagnetically quiet conditions, with a view to determining what modifications might bring about better predictions for the model. Our results reveal that the present version of IRI essentially reproduces diurnal trends and the general features of the experimental observations for all seasons, except for nighttime June solstice periods, which the model seriously overestimated. The model errors ranging from 50% to 125% over the four seasons considered in this study. It is also indicated that the percentage relative deviations between the observed and the modeled values vary approximately from −11% to 12% (March), −34% to 11% (June), −16% to 12% (September), and −10% to 13% (December). An unexpected feature of foF2 is obvious and remarkable reduction in values during nighttime June solstice periods compared to that in other seasons. Relationship between equatorial vertical drift and foF2 is also investigated. However, cross correlation analysis reveals strong anti-correlation between vertical drift and critical frequency during the daytime hours, but exceptionally opposite is the case for the nighttime sector. The discrepancies which are noted, particularly during June solstice season are attributed to processes most likely within the thermosphere and from meteorological influences during quiet magnetic conditions.