Investigation of the Causes of Optical and Infrared Airglow Structures in theMesosphere

摘要

The MAPSTAR program was both a theoretical and experimental investigation ofairglow structure and its causes. We found that the most important cause of the structures is atmospheric gravity waves, and that thunderstorms are a clearly identified source of the waves responsible for such structure. We also studied many related issues. In addition, two new instruments were designed and fabricated during this program. These were the MAPSTAR infrared Michelson interferometer and the MAPSTAR radar imaging Doppler interferometer. The latter instrument has played the crucial role in removing discrepancies between different methods of radar wind profiling. Structures investigated under MAPSTAR give rise to system clutter; thus having direct impact upon Air Force surveillance operations from space. (AN).