Revealing inconsistencies in ROTI index using multi-GNSS constellation measurements: impact of sampling rates and time window

Abstract

Understanding ionospheric irregularities and their dynamics is crucial, with the rate of change of the total electron content index (ROTI) serving as a significant metric for this purpose. However, inconsistencies in ROTI magnitudes have been noted when sampled at one-second interval across various Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) receivers. This study presents a detailed statistical analysis to investigate inconsistencies in ROTI using multi-GNSS observations in conjunction with four distinct GNSS receiver types. Various factors affecting the ROTI inconsistencies among receivers were examined, including differences in sampling rates (1, 5, 15, and 30 s), and varying time window widths (1, 2, and 5 min). By examination of data obtained from GNSS receivers with zero or short baselines on a global scale, the analysis uncovered substantial variations in multi-GNSS ROTI values across the four assessed receiver types. The main findings suggest that reducing the sampling rate reduces the inconsistencies in the magnitude of ROTI, particularly at lower sampling rates. This reduction can be attributed to the exclusion of high-frequency components in the ROTI spectrum. Interestingly, the width of the time window is found to have minimal impact on the ROTI magnitude. The study also shows a direct correlation between a larger magnitude of ROTI and the increased noise in the signals tracked by receivers. These results emphasize the importance of considering sampling rates and GNSS receiver types when utilizing ROTI to investigate ionospheric irregularities.