Predicting Ionospheric Electron Density Profiles

Typical measurements of the electron density in the various regions of the ionosphere are reviewed and the current availability of predictions based on these measurements is discussed. A method is suggested to combine regular ionospheric predictions such as f0F2 and f0E with estimates of electron density in the lower ionosphere and with empirical expressions for the electron density in the upper ionosphere to obtain a first approximation to the electron density versus height profile for the quiet ionosphere. Sample profile predictions based on regular ionospheric predictions are shown for ionospheric heights of most importance in the design and operation of high‐frequency communication systems.