Planetary Wave Variability in the Mesosphere and Lower Thermosphere: Influence of the Background Atmosphere and Distribution of Forcing

Northwest Research Associates, Incorporated, Seattle WA

Investigators

Abstract

Using background atmospheric states based upon the latest observations from space-bourne and ground-based platforms, re-analyses, and empirical models, global climatologies of monthly planetary wave activity in the mesosphere and lower thermosphere (MLT) will be produced using a linear planetary wave model. Predictions will be made for realistic lower atmospheric and in-situ forcing conditions. Electronic datasets, consisting of the model outputs, the blended mean states, and diagnostic parameters will be made available to the Aeronomy community. Model predictions will be constrained by observations of planetary waves in the MLT region. Classical wave propagation theory will be tested and exceptions noted and extensions provided.