The principle of index of refraction relates directly to the research conducted at the
HAARP facility. The radio waves transmitted by HAARP can be absorbed,transmitted,reflected,
and refracted. Signals that are refracted and transmitted through the ionsphere can be
detected by satellites maintained by the United States and Russia that orbit the polar region.
The index of refraction of the ionosphere can be determined from the location of the
satellite.
The index of refraction of the ionsphere is different for different frequencies of radio waves,
and also constantly changing. It depends on solar weather, and conditions in the Earth as
well, that are passed to the ionsphere through convection.
Information about the index of refraction of the ionosphere is important for the communications
industry. It is exciting to know that this and other research is being conducted so close
to Fairbanks.
For more information about HAARP, please visit their
website.