Models of Chemical Dynamical Radiative Interactions in the Mesosphere and Lower Thermosphere
ACD Scientists use TIMED observations along with a hierarchy of numerical models to investigate the global environment in the mesosphere and lower thermosphere (MLT) region. Particular emphasis is placed on the region's composition and chemistry and their impact on the energetics. The models are used to attempt to reproduce the observations, to conduct sensitivity tests to answer scientific questions, and to produce realistic simulations of fields that are not measured or only partially measured by TIMED. A combination of mechanistic models and Global Climate Models (GCMs) are used depending on the type of investigation and length of model integration. They are somewhat modular so that addition or modification of selected physical or chemical processes is facilitated.
Ongoing Scientific Investigations
- Transport by the mean circulation and large-scale and small scale waves
- Oxygen-hydrogen chemcial system
- Response of the MLT region to anthropogenic perturbations and solar cycle variability
- Fate of energy input to the chemical system
- The role of therospheric NO in the mesosphere and stratosphere
- Large-scale dynamical interactions, including the interaction of planetary waves and tides
- Simulation of selected observed events