Thermospheric Nitrogen and Oxygen Concentration Measurements with Rocket-Borne Electron Beam Fluorescence Probes.

摘要

A rocket-borne electron beam fluorescence probe (EBFP) has been developed for thermospheric diagnostics. The EBFP is capable of measuring vibrational and rotational temperatures as well as species concentrations by utilizing a spectrally selective electrooptical system for the detection of the electron beam induced fluorescence in the ambient gas of the atmosphere. An on-board electron gun delivering a beam of 2.5-keV energy and 4-mA current was employed. Results from two flights from Fort Churchill, Manitoba (March 1971 and March 1972), yielded N2 concentration measurements in good agreement with the Cira 1972 model atmosphere from 90 to 150 km and O2 concentrations in reasonably good agreement with the Cira 1972 model atmosphere for the 85- to 115-km altitude range.