Validation of equatorial plasma bubbles position around Taiwan Region: using FORMOSAT-7/COSMIC-2 and GNSS ground receivers

Equatorial plasma bubbles (EPBs) are regions within the ionosphere where plasma density is significantly lower than surrounding regions. These EPBs may disrupt satellite communication and GNSS (Global Navigation Satellite System) signals, affecting both the phase and amplitude of the signals. This interference leads to errors in positioning accuracy, a phenomenon commonly referred to as ionospheric scintillations. Due to Taiwan's unique geographical location close to the magnetic equator, it is particularly susceptible to the effects of EPBs. However, accurately detecting the locations of these EPBs remains a challenging task, both regionally and globally. To address these challenges, the primary objective of Center Weather Administration (CWA) is to enhance space weather information and provide local space weather forecasts. For ionospheric monitoring, CWA employs data from both space-based and ground-based sources. To verify the locations of plasma bubbles, CWA utilizes scintillation geolocation data from FORMOSAT-7/COSMIC-2 (Formosa Satellite-7/Constellation Observing System for Meteorology Ionosphere and Climate) measurements as well as ionospheric scintillation data from GNSS ground-based receivers. By combining these two types of observations, it becomes possible to track the movement of EPBs in the regions surrounding Taiwan. This method is probably able to be a valuable tool to provide the information for local space weather services.