Scintillation

Scintillation occurs when radio waves encounter small-scale structures or steep gradients in refractivity.

This can cause loss of lock on a satellite which can degrade GPS positional accuracy and reliability.

Scintillation occurs mainly around the equator and the auroral and polar cap regions.   A more detailed understanding of the causes and morphology of ionospheric scintillation will help to ensure more reliable satellite systems in the future.