Scientific Sessions
| Session 1 | Global- and large-scale variability of low-latitude aeronomy |
| Conveners | Nick Pedatella (UCAR, USA), Christine Mazaudier (LPP, France) |
| MSO | Babatunde Rabiu (AUST, Nigeria) |
| Abstract | The low-latitude ionosphere has long been considered a region that is continuously forced by atmospheric tides and waves that are able to vary the regional and global distribution of the plasma density and ionospheric currents. The focus of this session is on results from research related to the global and large-scale behavior and characteristics of the neutral atmosphere and ionosphere within the low latitude region. This includes variability in the neutral atmosphere waves, such as atmospheric tides and planetary waves, and their influences on the ionosphere electrodynamics and densities, as well as geomagnetically driven variability in the ionosphere. Of interest are studies examining phenomena such as the equatorial electrojet, equatorial anomaly, or plasma drifts. This session also solicits presentations geared towards understanding the atmospheric drivers and dynamics of the equatorial ionosphere. Presentations focused on recent advances of the low latitude atmosphere and ionosphere using a multi-technique approach during quiet and disturbed conditions are of interest. We additionally seek presentations that emphasize the importance of multi-sensor measurements, satellite observations, regional coverage, and continuous observations, as well as advances in modeling the equatorial region. |
| Session 2 | Equatorial E- and F-region irregularities: Causes and Effects |
| Conveners | S. Tulasi Ram (IIG, India), Astrid Maute (CIRES, USA) |
| MSO | Tatsuhiro Yokoyama (Kyoto University, Japan) |
| Abstract | This session covers contributions related to fundamental and applied aspects of E- and F-region ionospheric irregularities occurring at equatorial and low latitudes. The session welcomes presentations related to theoretical and observational studies on the source of ionospheric irregularities associated with for example equatorial electrojet, valley region, 150-km echoes, and plasma bubbles. Of special interest are the in-situ observations of plasma irregularities and multi-frequency scintillation observations to understand the foundation of intermediate scale plasma irregularities, which cause scintillation of radio waves used for satellite broadcasting and communication, and GNSS (Global Navigation Satellite System). The dependence of the irregularities on solar activity and geomagnetic activity as well as the effects of atmospheric waves propagating from below is an important topic in this session. We solicit studies on the generation, development, and decay of ionospheric irregularities based on satellite measurements, ground-based observations, numerical simulations, theoretical studies, and emerging methods such as machine learning. |
| Session 3 | Atmosphere-ionosphere-magnetosphere coupling at low-latitudes |
| Conveners | Deepak Karan (LASP, USA), Elvira Astafyeva (IPGP, France) |
| MSO | Duggirala Pallamraju (PRL, India) |
| Abstract | The low-latitude ionosphere-thermosphere region serves as a dynamic interface within the coupled Atmosphere-Ionosphere- Magnetosphere (AIM) system, characterized by complex vertical and horizontal interactions. The variability in this region is strongly influenced by mechanisms originating in the lower atmosphere, including atmospheric wind circulation, tides, planetary waves, and gravity wave forcing. These drivers contribute to phenomena such as the Equatorial Electrojet, Equatorial Ionization Anomaly, Pre-Reversal Enhancement, and plasma irregularities etc. Moreover, the coupling processes in this region are influenced by transient terrestrial events such as hurricanes, sudden stratospheric warming, and natural hazards, as well as by solar activities (e.g. solar flares, coronal mass ejections, eclipses, etc.) and geomagnetic storms and substorms. This vertical coupling not only impacts energy deposition and transport but also underscores the role of neutral-ion interactions in thermospheric density and wind dynamics. The interplay of terrestrial and space weather manifests in the modulation of the day-to-day, seasonal and solar variability of the AIM system. Studies focusing on interhemispheric asymmetries and the feedback between magnetospheric drivers and ionospheric responses have highlighted the need for robust modeling and predictive capabilities. Recently, optical, ultraviolet, radio and magnetic observations from ground and space along with numerical and theoretical studies have advanced our understanding of the forcings from below and from above and their role in shaping the ionosphere and thermoshphere at low latitudes. This session solicits papers highlighting recent findings and addressing issues on ATM coupling processes and their effect at low latitudes through observations, theory, and modelling efforts. |
| Session 4 | Recent advances in instrumentation and observation |
| Conveners | Anastasia Newheart (Orion Space Solutions, USA), Guozhu Li (IGG, China) |
| MSO | Marco Milla (PUCP, Peru) |
| Abstract | This session invites the scientific community to report observations from new instruments and observational programs designed to explore the equatorial and low-latitude mesosphere, thermosphere, ionosphere, and plasmasphere regions. Submissions on recent advancements in instrumentation and measurement analysis methods, new findings from newly developed observation techniques (ground-based and space-borne), and recently established instrumentation networks are welcome. Examples of relevant instrumentation include but are not limited to ionosondes, magnetometers, GNSS receivers, coherent or incoherent backscatter radars, VLF/ELF receivers, rockets, space probes, optical imagers, Fabry-Perot interferometers, lidars, distributed observatories, CubeSat, and multiple satellite missions. We also solicit presentations addressing the demonstration and validation of new measurement techniques, concept studies of new instruments, prospective future space missions, and worldwide observation campaigns. |
| Session 5 | Future trends, opportunities and challenges |
| Conveners | Claire Gasque (UC Berkeley, USA), Jorge L. Chau (IAP, Germany) |
| MSO | Fabiano Rodrigues (UT Dallas, USA) |
| Abstract | Equatorial aeronomy remains a dynamic field, with new opportunities and challenges arising as technological, observational, and modeling capabilities evolve. This session will explore recent developments and emerging trends that are shaping the future of the field. Topics will include plans and ideas for new ground- and satellite-based instrumentation, innovative data analysis techniques, and advancements in equatorial geospace modeling. The session will also highlight recent scientific results of wide interest that may inform future research efforts in the field. Contributions related to fostering international collaborations, addressing operational space weather forecasting needs, and identifying gaps in current knowledge/capabilities are also highly encouraged. |
| Discussion Session | Space traffic and sustainability |
| MSO | Claudia Stolle (IAP, Germany), Jeffrey Klenzing (NASA, USA) |
| Abstract | Modern society has become increasingly reliant on the utilisation of the geospace environment. Satellite infrastructure continues to grow as the backbone of global communication. The growing number of spacecraft in LEO and potentially VLEO also calls for increased awareness for sustainability in the near-Earth space environment. For example, collision avoidance strategies have become a regular consideration during mission planning and operation and artificial space objects affect the scientific analysis of, e.g., radar reflections. The potential effects of re-entries on atmospheric chemistry can only be estimated. Both radar reflections of artificial objects and satellite re-entries occur more frequently at low latitudes than at high latitudes due to low-inclination LEO satellites. This provides an opportunity for the low-latitude aeronomy community to use its scientific infrastructure and knowledge for space sustainability applications. From the research perspective, satellites enable observations with global coverage and provide in situ data of the thermosphere and ionosphere with much higher resolution and accuracy than could be achieved by remote sensing techniques. There is increased interest from both the private sector and the scientific community to fly satellites on Very Low Earth Orbits (VLEO), below 300 km altitude. These will allow systematic in-situ observations of atmospheric layers that largely have been inaccessible so far. These low mission altitudes will lead to an increase of knowledge in aeronomy, and thus are highly relevant to our research. Likewise, understanding and predicting the lower thermosphere with its high neutral and plasma densities and its strong ionospheric currents will be important for the mission operation in LEO and VLEO. It is of interest to all stakeholders to keep space sustainable in order to use it effectively for the benefit of society, including fundamental and applied science. This session will consist of an oral and a poster session to present recent interest, concerns, and developments related to the utilisation of space. The oral session is by invitation and is followed by a panel discussion with invited representatives from engineering, agencies, industry, and the research community. |