Abstract:
This dissertation explores the spatiotemporal variations of ionospheric Total Electron
Content (TEC) and the characteristics of Equatorial Plasma Bubbles (EPBs)
over East Africa, based on a comprehensive analysis of global navigation satellite
system (GNSS) TEC gathered from 2012 to 2016. Understanding these phenomena
is essential for enhancing the accuracy of satellite-based navigation, communication,
and positioning systems, particularly in regions like East Africa that are vulnerable
to ionospheric disturbances. Employing Ordinary Kriging (OK), geostatistical interpolation
technique, this research meticulously quanti es the spatial and temporal
behavior of TEC across various geographic regions within Ethiopia. The results indicate
signi cant diurnal variations, with TEC values consistently peaking around
noon (approximately 12: 00 UT) and showing marked di erences across latitudes.
For instance, northern regions often display elevated TEC levels compared to southern
areas, highlighting a pronounced north-south gradient that aligns with variations
in solar and geomagnetic in
uences. In addition to TEC analysis, the study employs
GNSS- derived parameters such as the Rate of TEC Index (ROTI) and slant TEC
(sTEC) to characterize the occurrence and dynamics of EPBs during geomagnetically
quiet conditions. The ndings reveal that EPB activity predominantly occurs
between 17:00 and 22:00 UT, with peak occurrences aligned with equinox seasons.
This pattern underscores the in
uence of solar terminator alignment with the geomagnetic
meridian, which facilitates the generation of EPBs through enhanced vertical
plasma drift and subsequent Rayleigh-Taylor instability. Furthermore, the research
establishes correlation between TEC variability and EPB occurrences, suggesting that
increased TEC prior to sunset enhances the likelihood of EPB formation. The insights
gained from this study contribute to a deeper understanding of equatorial ionospheric
dynamics and the complex interactions between solar activity, geomagnetic
conditions, and ionospheric structure. Overall, this dissertation not only advances
the scienti c knowledge of ionospheric behaviors in East Africa but also emphasizes
the e ectiveness of geostatistical modeling techniques in enhancing predictive capabilities
for TEC variability and EPB dynamics. By providing a detailed analysis of
these crucial phenomena, this work aims to support improved forecasting and mitigation
strategies for the impacts of space weather on technological systems reliant on
accurate ionospheric data