GPS observation of traveling ionospheric disturbances related to Moscow megacity

We present the results of GPS-signal radio interferometry observations obtained in the period of summer 2010 (97 days) at the stations in the Moscow region. The stations belong to MNGS (Moscow Navigational and Geodetic Support) and IGS (International Geophysical Services) networks. We observed traveling ionospheric disturbances (TIDs) in a ring form around Moscow. Empirical functions of the parameters (motion speed and observation period) are obtained and discussed. It is shown that the observed distributions are manifestations of the acoustic-gravity waves and may be associated with a special heat regime, including the urban heat island established in the Moscow region during summer 2010 in the conditions of a blocking anticyclone.