NORSTAR riometers

The NORthern Solar Terrestrial ARray (NORSTAR) operates single-beam single-frequency riometers at 13 sites in north-central Canada. This is the continuation of the CANOPUS MARIA riometer array. The instruments are described in detail on the NORSTAR web site.

The riometers collect one data point every five seconds. There are three levels of data products that are produced by the array. The raw data is in volts, which is in turn converted to dBs. As well, when baselining is possible, the data is further converted to dB absorption. The level of data required depends on the scientific or space weather application. For example, timing and location of dispersionless injections can, in principle, be done using the raw data. On the other hand, quantitative studies of high energy electron precipitation invariably requires baselined data.

The raw data and (where possible) the baselined dB absorption is currently available from the CSSDP and the NORSTAR web site. Future plans include the development of CDF data files. Plans are underway to include the riometer data in numerous virtual observatories, as well as CDAWeb and the CEDAR data base.

Questions regarding the scientific use of the data, the technique for baselining the data, and instrumental issues should be directed to Eric Donovan, Emma Spanswick, and Brian Jackel ({eric,emma,bjackel}@phys.ucalgary.ca).

Principal Investigator:	Dr. Eric Donovan
	eric@phys.ucalgary.ca