Compact, low-cost GNSS modules for efficient ionospheric probing: a case study from India during amplitude scintillation events of autumnal equinox 2022

Ionospheric scintillations disrupt the trans-ionospheric satellite signals and cause quandaries in satellite applications typically near the low equatorial sites; GNSS signals are utilized extensively for monitoring such anomalies. This work presents the unique results that confirm the suitability and limitations of a commercial low-cost, GNSS module (Ublox ZED F9P) for amplitude scintillation monitoring from a location in India situated near the EIA crest during the autumnal equinox of 2022 for low to intense amplitude scintillations. Comparison of amplitude scintillation index (S₄) and fade rate using concurrent data from a Leica GR50 geodetic receiver and the low-cost module shows fairly good agreement between the results. The findings have practical utility in designing cost, size, and power-efficient GNSS probes using such modules for ionospheric research. Such modules are not a replacement for the traditional receivers but can be utilized to implement a multi-point, autonomous amplitude scintillation monitoring network.