The Long Wavelength Array (LWA) is a new telescope/interferometer facility being established to do astrophysical observations in the frequency range 10 MHz to 90 MHz. But, because measurements will be strongly affected by the ionosphere, part of the LWA mandate is to make highly precise measurements of the ionosphere. The array is to be sited in southern New Mexico beginning Fall ‘09, and will be able to image the mid-latitude ionosphere with unprecedented detail. In preparation, we have begun both a comprehensive modeling effort, and preliminary experimental measurements using the Very Large Array as a surrogate for the LWA. Results of these efforts will be presented in addition to an overview of the LWA project.