Comparison of the F2-layer half-widths given by the IRI with the rocket data

Abstract

F2-layer half-width is an important ionospheric parameter in empirical modeling of the ionosphere. In the International Reference Ionosphere IRI the half-width is related to the half-density height h(0.5), which itself is analytically related to other parameters of the model. In this paper h(0.5) - values given by two versions of the IRI, are compared to observer values from a series of geophysical “Vertical” rocket flights.