Work

Analysis of Ionospheric TEC Anomalies Using BDS High-Orbit Satellite Data: A Regional Statistical Study and a Case Study of the 2023 Jishishan Ms6.2 Earthquake

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: This study presents a comprehensive analysis of pre- and co-seismic ionospheric disturbances associated with the 2023 Ms6.2 Jishishan earthquake by leveraging the unique observational strengths of BDS, particularly its high-orbit satellites. A multi-parameter space weather index was employed to effectively isolate seismogenic signals from geomagnetic disturbances, confirming that the main shock occurred during geomagnetically quiet conditions. Statistical analysis of 41 historical earthquakes (Mw ≥ 5.5) reveals that 47.2% were associated with detectable Total Electron Content (TEC) anomalies. An inverse correlation between earthquake magnitude and anomaly detectability within a 31-day window suggests prolonged precursor durations for larger events may produce longer-duration precursory signals, which challenge conventional detection methods. The synergistic capabilities of BDS Geostationary Earth Orbit (GEO) and Inclined Geosynchronous Orbit (IGSO) satellites were demonstrated: GEO satellites provide unprecedented temporal stability for continuous TEC monitoring, while IGSO satellites enable high-resolution spatial mapping of Co-seismic Ionospheric Disturbances (CIDs). The detected CIDs propagated at velocities below 1.6 km/s, consistent with acoustic gravity wave (AGW) mechanisms. A case study during a geomagnetically active period further reveals modulated CID propagation characteristics, indicating potential coupling between seismic forcing and space weather. Our findings validate BDS as a powerful and precise tool for ionospheric seismology and provide critical insights into Lithosphere–Atmosphere–Ionosphere Coupling (LAIC) dynamics.

Source: Remote Sensing

DOI: 10.3390/rs17244032

Authors: Xiao Gao, Hanyi Cao, Ranran Shen, Meiting Xin, Penggang Tian, Lin Pan

Institutions: Xi'an University of Architecture and Technology, Central South University

Language: English

Topic: Earthquake Detection and Analysis

Subfield: Geophysics

Field: Earth and Planetary Sciences

Domain: Physical Sciences

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $3,258

Funders: Education Department of Shaanxi Province, Key Research and Development Projects of Shaanxi Province