A Modeling Investigation of Ducted Gravity Waves in the Mesosphere/Lower Thermosphere (MLT) Region: Energetics, Airglow Response, and Relation to "Wall" Events

Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, Daytona Beach FL

Investigators

Abstract

A model to quantify the stead-state propagation of gravity waves, in particular ducted gravity waves, is expanded to investigate the time dependence of wave propagation and the impact of these waves on airglow in the mesosphere. The research is expected to establish, for the first time, a coherent theory for the creation of "Wall Events" sometimes seen in OH airglow images as large amplitude, distinct, airglow brightness gradients. The model to be used is an established Spectral Full-Wave model, which is adapted to treat transient wave phenomena in the time domain.