A data correction method in radio-occultation experiments using regional atmospheric models by the example of Arctic

A method for correction of the data obtained in atmospheric studies using radio-occultation experiments is proposed. The method is based on obtaining the a priori data from regional atmospheric models, estimating the distortions inherent in radio-occultation experiments, and constructing the correction algorithms. As a result, the accuracy of reconstruction of the refractive index in real atmosphere is improved in the range of heights from 2 km to 12 km. By the example of the Arctic region, a technique for testing the suggested correction methods with the use of independent sonde measurements of atmospheric profiles is developed. Using the data obtained from the CHAMP satellite in the years 2001–2004, the suggested correction methods are tested and the statistical analysis of their efficiency is carried out. The validity limits of the suggested method are determined for different geographic conditions.