Improving ionospheric
predictability requires accurate
simulation of the mesospheric
polar vortex

The mesospheric polar vortex plays a critical role in coupling the atmosphere-ionosphere system, so its accurate simulation is imperative for robust predictions of the thermosphere and ionosphere. While the stratospheric polar vortex is widely understood and characterized, the mesospheric polar vortex is much less well-known and observed, a shortcoming that must be addressed to improve predictability of the ionosphere. For more information please see: https://doi.org/10.3389/fspas.2022.1041426