Mr PHILLIP OPIO, Mbarara University of Science and Technology, Uganda
Dr. Akiiki Kazooba holds a PhD in Space Physics from Mbarara University of Science and Technology, with a pending book submission. He earned his Master’s degree in Physics (Space Physics) from Makerere University and a Bachelor’s in Science with Education (Physics and Mathematics) from Kyambogo University. Currently serving as a Lecturer and Head of Department for Physical Sciences at Mountains of the Moon University (MMU), Dr. Kazooba oversees academic guidance, research programs, and departmental budgeting. His responsibilities include teaching, supervising staff, and coordinating research efforts for both undergraduate and postgraduate students. 🌌
Publication profile
Scopus
Education
Dr. Michaela Cellina, currently pursuing a PhD in Space Physics at Mbarara University of Science and Technology since 2021, has a robust academic background. She completed her Master of Science in Physics, specializing in space physics, at Makerere University in 2014, following her Bachelor of Science with Education in Physics and Mathematics from Kyambogo University in 2009. Dr. Cellina also holds a Certificate in Monitoring and Evaluation from Makerere University, obtained in October 2009. Her research interests span cosmic phenomena and the application of physics in space exploration 🌌.
Research Interest
My primary research interest lies in ionospheric studies of low-latitude regions, focusing on understanding dynamic interactions and phenomena within the ionosphere. Specifically, I investigate the impact of solar variability, geomagnetic storms, and the equatorial electrojet on ionospheric dynamics and electron density profiles. Additionally, I aim to explore coupling mechanisms between the neutral atmosphere and ionosphere, and the effects of anthropogenic activities on ionospheric variability. Through my research 🛰️, I aim to deepen our understanding of ionospheric dynamics in low-latitude regions, contributing to improved space weather forecasting, satellite communications, and navigation systems.
Presentations
Dr. PHILLIP OPIO presented significant research findings on ionospheric heights in East Africa at various academic forums. At the 6th annual PhD symposium at Mbarara University of Science and Technology (MUST) in June 2022, the validation of a 350 km effective ionospheric height for Equatorial and low latitude regions was discussed. This was followed by a presentation on ionospheric observations using ionosondes at Muni University’s Space Weather and Upper Atmospheric data analysis training workshop in Arua, Uganda, in September 2023. Additionally, a new method for determining ionospheric shell height using GNSS receivers was presented at Mountains of the Moon University’s 2nd International Research Conference in an effort to 🌍 advance knowledge in atmospheric science and space weather monitoring.
Research focus
Based on the research publication titled “Characterization of the effective height of the ionosphere using GPS data over East Africa, a low latitude region” by Opio, P., Andima, G., and Jurua, E., published in Advances in Space Research (2023), the primary research focus revolves around ionospheric studies, particularly in the African sector. Their work emphasizes the latitudinal variation of the ionosphere using GPS Total Electron Content (TEC) data. This research contributes to understanding how ionospheric heights vary in low latitude regions like East Africa, crucial for satellite communications, GPS accuracy, and space weather monitoring. 🌍🛰️
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