Abstract
Abstract It is shown that the eddy diffusion limit of sodium clouds ejected by rockets can be considered as an indicator of the turbopause, and that the altitude of the turbopause varies substantially during the night. In order to achieve this, first the existence of two highly different wind regimes during the night between 95 and 110km altitude is revealed in the variation in mean kinetic energy with altitude as well as by other effects. Then, the relations between the variation in kinetic energy with altitude, the energy dissipated, and the eddy diffusion coefficient is established. Finally, by applying these results to experimental data, it is shown that the atmosphere remains turbulent up to 105 km during the first portion of the night, and that the turbopause descends to about 95 km during the second portion of the night. An explanation for this nocturnal evolution of the atmosphere is also presented.
Published Version
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call