The IGS program is primarily engaged in the scientific observation and analysis of the ionized layer of the earth's atmosphere, which is vital to long range radio communications. Research is based on vertical and oblique (i.e. trans-equatorial) soundings that are routinely conducted together with continuous monitoring of geomagnetic activity.

The IGS program also includes the Observatory as a node in the Low-latitude Ionospheric Tomography Network (LITN) that consists of an array of receivers spanning Manila to Shanghai which obtain beacon signals from the US Naval Navigation satellite system. The LITN is designed to carry out large-scale experiments on ionospheric imaging by computerized tomography to study structures and disturbances of the ionosphere at low latitudes.

Research activities include:

• Ionospheric F Layer properties in relation to solar activity, sunspot cycle, and magnetic activity, including temporal (i.e. diurnal, seasonal, annual) and spatial (i.e. latitudinal) variations
• Ionospheric E Layer properties in relation to atmospheric electricity
• Electron content/scintillation studies
• Equatorial ionospheric anomalies, spread phenomena, and radio signals
• Trans-equatorial propagation studies (in coordination with DSTO Australia)