Small-scale, convectively-forced, ducted gravity waves are characterized using 2D and 3D nonlinear numerical models, with the goal of comparing model gravity wave phenomena to data from altitudes where gravity waves are commonly imaged. A preliminary task characterizes the structure, directionality, and effect of a thunderstorm generated gravity wave when ducted into the mesosphere and ultimately to about 87 km (the airglow layer). A second task characterizes the morphology of atmospheric "bore-like" waves as a general phenomenon within an idealized atmosphere. The applicability of that general model to observed mesospheric bores is investigated. A final task determines how linear and nonlinear gravity wave phenomena perturb both the OI 557.7 nm and OH Meinel airglow layers.

Agency
National Science Foundation (NSF)
Institute
Division of Atmospheric and Geospace Sciences (AGS)
Application #
0437140
Program Officer
Cassandra G. Fesen
Project Start
Project End
Budget Start
2005-01-01
Budget End
2007-12-31
Support Year
Fiscal Year
2004
Total Cost
$206,316
Indirect Cost
Name
Pennsylvania State University
Department
Type
DUNS #
City
University Park
State
PA
Country
United States
Zip Code
16802