Comprehensive measurements of temperature, winds, and gravity wave structure at two sites, Mt. Haleakala Hawaii and the Artic Lidar Observatory for Middle Atmosphere Research (ALOMAR) in Northern Norway, are used to quantify key parameters aspects of the momentum transfer between the middle and upper atmosphere. Emphasis is placed on quantification of the role of instabilities in gravity wave dynamics, quantification of momentum transport and deposition, and determinations of mean forcing by gravity waves in the two regions. The methodology includes operation of lidars, optical interferometers, imagers, and radars, with subsequent numerical modeling to permit quantification of the response to instability dynamics on gravity wave amplitudes, on the mean flow, and on the momentum flux. Observations at two sites, one polar and one equatorial reveal the adaptability of the methodology to regions of very disparate ambient, or mean-flow conditions that are modulated in part by weather.

Agency
National Science Foundation (NSF)
Institute
Division of Atmospheric and Geospace Sciences (AGS)
Application #
0436703
Program Officer
Cassandra G. Fesen
Project Start
Project End
Budget Start
2005-01-15
Budget End
2008-12-31
Support Year
Fiscal Year
2004
Total Cost
$246,059
Indirect Cost
Name
Northwest Research Associates, Incorporated
Department
Type
DUNS #
City
Redmond
State
WA
Country
United States
Zip Code
98052