Estimation of global VTEC in near real-time using B-splines in support of IRI

Summary form only given. Real-time measurement streams from GNSS are becoming a reality with the advancements in technology. Currently, IGS and many regional networks provide real-time data streams. To explore the possible use of these streams, (near) real-time ionosphere modeling has been the focus of research in recent years. Reliable and accurate algorithms are required in order to use the data streams or derived short RINEX patches to deliver accurate real-time or near real-time (NRT) products such as global ionospheric Vertical Total Electron Content (VTEC).