NASA’s Atmospheric Waves Experiment (AWE)

November 22, 2023

NASA is set to launch the Atmospheric Waves Experiment (AWE), a pioneering mission aimed at studying the interactions between terrestrial and space weather. This $42 million mission, planned under NASA’s Heliophysics Explorers Program, will focus on understanding the impact of waves in the lower layers of Earth’s atmosphere on the upper atmosphere and space weather.

Understanding Space Weather

Significance: Space weather refers to the environmental conditions in space as influenced by the Sun’s activities, including solar flares and emissions. It directly affects crucial installations on Earth, such as satellite-based communication, radio communication, navigation systems, and power grids.
Influence of Terrestrial Weather: Besides solar activities, space weather is also influenced by terrestrial weather, creating a dynamic and interconnected system.

The Role of Gravity Waves

Definition: Gravity waves are vertical waves, specifically Atmospheric Gravity Waves (AGW), generated during extreme weather events or sudden disturbances, causing vertical displacement of stable air.
Formation: Stable atmospheres play a crucial role in generating gravity waves. The temperature difference between rising air and the atmosphere creates forces, leading to a wave-like pattern.
Impact on Space Weather: AGWs move through stable layers of the atmosphere, contributing to space weather. Understanding these waves is vital for improving weather forecasts and comprehending their broader impacts.

Atmospheric Waves Experiment (AWE)

Objective: AWE aims to study the links between waves in the lower atmosphere and their impact on the upper atmosphere and space weather.
Launch and Mounting: The $42 million mission will be launched and mounted on the International Space Station (ISS), providing a vantage point to observe Earth’s lower atmosphere.
Instrumentation: AWE features an Advanced Mesospheric Temperature Mapper (ATMT) with four identical telescopes to scan the mesopause, capturing airglow patterns.
Measurement: The ATMT will measure the brightness of light at specific wavelengths, converting the data into a temperature map. This information will offer insights into airglow movements and their role in the upper atmosphere and space weather.

« Previous Post Next Post »