On the expected performance of a solar oscillation network

• Published in: Solar physics 1985-02, Vol.95 (2), p.201-219
• Main Authors: HILL, F, NEWKIRK, G. JR
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Astronomy; Earth, ocean, space; Exact sciences and technology; Fundamental astronomy and astrophysics. Instrumentation, techniques, and astronomical observations; Observation and data reduction techniques. Computer modeling and simulation
• ISSN: 0038-0938; 1573-093X
• DOI: 10.1007/BF00152398

The performance of several hypothetical ground-based networks intended to provide continuous observations of solar oscillations for one year is estimated. These networks were composed of from 2 to 6 stations distributed both in longitude and between the northern and southern hemispheres. Weather patterns at each site were simulated using a 4-parameter climate model and the results analyzed to yield the duty cycle of the representative networks. The results indicate that a 2 station network might achieve a 60 percent annual mean duty cycle, 3 stations might provide 75 percent, 4 stations might yield 82 percent, and 6 stations might give a 93 percent annual mean duty cycle. Comparison of an existing 6 station network with the model of the same network suggests that the modelling procedure is realistic provided that the estimates of the climate parameters are accurate. To illustrate the influence of such networks on observations of solar oscillations, a synthetic time-line of solar velocities is created from published data and the power spectrum of the signal as observed by various networks is analyzed.