With this grant Dr. Hunten continues a wide ranging research program of theoretical studies of the atmospheres of objects in the Solar System. The projects include investigations of : (1) The effects of infalling ring material on the atmosphere of Uranus, specifically the possibility that sedimenting dust might be a heat source for the lower thermosphere; (2) A theory of micrometeorite entry into an atmosphere, particularly as related to (1); (3) The atmospheric structure and processes on Mercury and the Moon; (4) The use of a Mars aeronomical model to study ozone distribution and soil oxidants; (5) Thermospheric and mesospheric modeling of the terrestrial planets and Pluto; (6) The structure and energy limited escape of Pluto's upper atmosphere; and (7) The origin and evolution of the Solar System.
