NTCM

The Neustrelitz Total Electron Content Model (NTCM) is an empirical model that provides a practical and a cost-effective solution for the determination of global TEC. It makes use of 12 model coefficients, few empirically fixed parameters, and the solar radio flux F10.7 index.The Neustrelitz Total Electron Content Model (NTCM), specifically its NTCM-G variant, has been adapted to utilize broadcast Galileo Effective Ionisation Level coefficients, serving as a fully compatible algorithm for calculating ionospheric corrections for Galileo single-frequency users. Developed by the German Aerospace Centre (DLR) and validated by the Joint Research Centre (JRC) of the European Commission and the European Space Agency (ESA), the NTCM-G model offers a practical and cost-effective solution for determining global Total Electron Content (TEC). Adopted as an alternative to the NeQuick-G algorithm, NTCM-G demonstrates excellent performance comparable to the reference solution while significantly reducing computational complexity and runtime. This reduction in complexity is particularly advantageous for user segments with limited resources, such as civil aviation receivers and location-based service devices. Interested users can access the model's reference document, "NTCM-G Ionospheric Model Description," and its source code, both freely available for download. The document provides comprehensive definitions, implementation procedures, guidelines, and data for algorithm validation, facilitating the integration of NTCM-G into GNSS receivers.

Users can operate the model interactively for vertical TEC computation at any geographic location.