The ABC of IPY Ionospheric research.

The International Polar Year (IPY 2007-2009) is a large scientific programme that unites many researchers in the study of, among others, the behaviour of space weather as manifested in the Arctic and Antarctic. The polar ionosphere offers a unique environment for research due to the peculiar properties of the magnetic field lines at the poles which provides a window into geospace. One of the core projects of the IPY is "Heliosphere Impact on Geospace" in which several institutions in South Africa participate. The colloquiem will provide an overview of the state of current knowledge and capabilities regarding the high latitude ionosphere and the opportunities provided by IPY for space physics research.