Measurements of the mean structure, temperature, and circulation of the MLT
Whitepaper #371 in the Decadal Survey for Solar and Space Physics (Heliophysics) 2024-2033. Main topics: basic research; infrastructure/workforce/other programmatic. Additional topics: planetary ionospheres / upper atmospheres; space-based missions/projects; research tools […]
by Anne K. Smith, Colby Brabec, Jorge Chau, Xinzhao Chu, Bernd Funke, V. Lynn Harvey, McArthur Jones, Jr., Aimee Merkel, Steven Miller, Martin Mlynczak, Scott Osprey, Doug Rowland, and Jia Yue
Published onJul 31, 2023
Measurements of the mean structure, temperature, and circulation of the MLT
The mean state of the MLT (mesosphere – lower thermosphere) is key in the exchange of energy, momentum, and trace species between the middle and upper atmosphere. Knowledge of the mean state wind and temperature is endangered by an upcoming gap in measurements. Needed actions include continued operation of existing space-borne instruments and rapid development of replacement options.
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