David Hysell

David Hysell is a Professor in the Department of Earth & Atmospheric Sciences at Cornell University. His research focuses on ionospheric physics, plasma turbulence, and equatorial aeronomy. He leads projects utilizing HF radar networks, satellite data (e.g., ICON), and advanced modeling techniques to study ionospheric instabilities and space weather phenomena. Key tools include the Jicamarca Radio Observatory and collaborative initiatives like the SPARTA Center for space weather forecasting.

His work integrates fluid/plasma simulations, automatic differentiation for parameter estimation, and hybrid kinetic models to understand Farley-Buneman instabilities, equatorial spread F, and sporadic E-layer dynamics. Recent efforts emphasize ionospheric forecasting using multi-instrument data fusion and machine learning approaches. Hysell actively participates in international observatory upgrades and geospace radar development to enhance global ionospheric monitoring capabilities.

Scientific contributions include advancing ionospheric specification methods using HF beacon networks, investigating solar minimum conditions at equatorial altitudes, and studying plasma wave interactions in high-latitude regions. His research bridges theoretical plasma physics with applied space weather monitoring, addressing both fundamental science and operational needs.