IonoNet: An INGV network of OBLIQUE Ionosondes

IonoNet is a multi-static cooperative radar network of PRC (Pseudo Random Code) ionosondes designed by INGV to map and study the local variation of the ionosphere, its electron density profiles and the radio propagation parameters to valuate TEC anomalies and generate alerts for disturbed ionospheric conditions. The used ionosondes are bistatic PRC radar transmitting and receiving almost continuous wave.

The network project aims to install 4 transmitting ionosondes sites in: Rome, Montelibretti (RM), Gibilmanna (PA), La Spezia (SP) and 4 receiving ionosonde in Rocca di Papa (RM), Preturo (AQ), Duronia (IS), Lampedusa (AG), Castello Tesino (TN) to cover a main part of our national territory from north to south.

Most of the receiving sites (CTS, DUR, LMP) are sites of the INGV Geomagnetic Observatories, choices for opportunities as INGV infrastructure and after a compatibility test between ionosonde instrumentations (mainly an RF receiver) and geomagnetic magnetometers.

The choice of the transmitting sites in Rome, Montelibretti and Gibilmanna has been facilitated by the use of INGV ionospheric observatories already equipped with antenna structures. However more little antennas have been developed for the Varese Ligure and Montelibretti sites.