Ionosphere TEC

This is a map of the 'total electron content' of the ionosphere across the globe. It was measured by using the Global Positioning System satellites, and studying the delay times for receiving the broadcasted timing signals at the ground. The amount of time delay depends on the density of electrons in the ionosphere, and this can be mapped out by using thousands of GPS stations across the globe.

The average level of X-rays from the sun causes the ionosphere to have a relatively constant day-side 'TEC' which can be seen in the light-blue color of the left-half of the map which is in daylight. Nighttime levels are far lower as you can see on the right half of the map.

During a strong solar flare, you may see the level of the dayside TEC increase suddenly, which indicates the effect that a solar storm has on our Earth. These flare events are also known to cause the GPS system to become temporarily inaccurate for up to an hour.

Back to Real-time Impacts Monitor