Ionospheric scintillation control by antipodal vertical drift asymmetries

The ionospheric scintillation over low latitudes is often scrutinized in association with analyses of the related Equatorial Plasma Bubbles. However, the background ionospheric environment is typically distinct over each hemisphere, perhaps altering the scintillation pattern, and must be also considered. Therefore, an investigation is required to uncover the physical drivers responsible for the distinct environments and to evaluate the scintillation patterns. This work uses data from scintillation monitors and ionosondes deployed at geomagnetically antipodal stations to assess the processes causing the asymmetries and the influence of the distinct background ionosphere in the ensuing scintillation scenarios. The results revealed asymmetries in the onset and magnitude of the scintillation and suggest that the vertical component of the plasma drift may be the responsible for the ionospheric background asymmetry, possibly causing the distinct scintillation patterns recorded.