INTERNAL CONSISTENCY ANALYSES FOR PARTIAL AND TOTAL REFLECTION DRIFTS DATA

Winds data for summer and winter months are obtained from two partial reflection drift facilities (Adelaide, 31°S, and Saskatoon, 52°N) using the D1 method. An internal consistency parameter which is available from each record, and statistical estimates of the similarity of wind vectors between adjacent records, are used to compare various methods of analysis (including data rejection criteria). These can also be used to compare ionospheric conditions, and/or equipment differences, between different research establishments. These internal consistency analyses have led to the development of a numerical V(true) analysis for Saskatoon which employs careful record selection. The Saskatoon ionospheric data is not suitable for the standard graphical V(true) analysis, and previously published winds data has used the V(apparent) velocity estimate. The desirability of the V(true) parameter over the V(apparent) is demonstrated, and winds derived from 1 and 3 min record lengths are shown to be useful for high resolution wave studies. Following comparisons with the more desirable V(true) estimate, previously published winds data from Saskatoon can now be adjusted: for mean winds, below 100 km no change is recommended, but above ~100 km a reduction of ~50% is suggested. The 'irregular winds', associated with gravity waves (τ ≲ 1 h), should be reduced by ~40%. © 1979.