[uaf-experiments] the upcoming ISR world days

Dear Colleagues,

The next ISR world-day experiment is coming soon. This experiment is part of an international coordinated observational campaign along the 120E/60W longitude. The goal is to study longitudinal differences of space weather/climate between Asia and America sectors, in particular, the underlying sciences driving vertical coupling and horizontal variability. We are interested in observations close to this meridian as well as elsewhere that can put meridian observations into appropriate context. Currently this coordinated effort is joined by dozens of observational facilities/observatories mostly in the asian sector, each of which is equiped with radio remote sensing, optical, and/or geomagnetism instruments.

The first international campaign is 2 weeks between March 24 – April 6, 2014. Our primary target is geospace storms, and we would like to use the four ISR world days for detecting storms during this 2-week period. Therefore the exact start time will depend on storm prediction. I will watch closely such prediction, and will send you note 3-5 days ahead of the start day.

In the case of no storm, the official ISR world day schedule is to run the 4-day experiment during the next window, September 2014. However, given the fact that many other non-ISRs will be working continuously during this entire 2-week period in March-April, I would appeciate it very much if your facility is able to take data for at least the last 4-day: April 2-6 (the regular working days between Mar 31 - April 4 are fine too). ISR observations would be very helpful for the success of this international campaign.

In summary, (1) we are trying to catch a magnetic storm; (2) If there is a storm to come, I will send you a note for campaign start date 3-5 days ahead, and the 4-day radar run will be within the period March 24 - April 6. (3) If there is no storm, I hope your facility can still take data for 4 days, or as much as possible, during this period. 

Thank you very much for your collaboration.
 

Shunrong Zhang

MIT Haystack Observatory

Off Route 40

Westford, MA 01886

USA

phone: 1-781-981-5725