Analysis on 29 March 2006 eclipse effect on the ionosphere over Ilorin, Nigeria

Abstract

Ionospheric measurements obtained during the 29 March 2006 eclipse period over Ilorin, Nigeria (longitude 4.57°E, latitude 8.53°N, dip 4.1°S), an equatorial station, are used for this study. The data are used in the determination of photoionisation rates (q) and loss coefficients at various heights. It was found that the transition height between the regions where the linear (ß) and quadratic (α) loss coefficients hold is around 200 km. Some form of validations of the parameters q and α were carried out. A comparison of the results of production rates, vertical velocities and loss coefficients obtained for the F region from our study with those obtained at high solar activity for a previous eclipse at a station close to Ilorin indicates solar activity effects. Copyright 2009 by the American Geophysical Union.