Stratospheric Humidity Research Articles

Direct Solar Radiation up to 30 km and Stratification of Attenuation Components in the Stratosphere

The balloon apparatus and some of the results of the direct solar radiation investigations up to 30 km in the middle belt of the Soviet Union in 1961-1965 are briefly described. Measurements of total direct solar radiation showed that the aerosol extinction properties in the free atmosphere are rather considerable, not only up to 30 km but also at the higher levels. The layered character of the stratospheric optical structure is demonstrated. The dynamics of layers and the possible influence of volcanic activity is discussed. Spectral investigations in the 0.35-13 micro region demonstrated that the stratospheric humidity is small, approximating 10(-6)-10(-5) g/g. The measurements in the visible spectrum confirmed that stratospheric aerosol component is essential, the stratospheric optical density being about 10(-4)-10(-3) km(-1). Comparison of the results of spectral and integral investigations indicates that the aerosol ext nction is also dominant above 30 km.

A Radiometer-Sonde for Observing Emission from Atmospheric Water Vapor

A balloon borne instrument is described which measures the downward flux of thermal radiation from atmospheric water vapor in the region of 6.3 micro. Use is made of a liquid-air-cooled gold-doped germanium detector together with a 40 cps vibrating vane chopper which operates at the same temperature as the detector. The responsivity of the detector increases with height, enabling measurements to be made over about four orders of magnitude. Signals, after amplification and synchronous rectification, are transmitted to the ground via an FM/FM telemetry system. Regular energy calibration is performed by reference to a local blackbody at a known temperature. The complete assembly weighs 2.5 kg and is flown on a conventional rubber balloon as part of a regular meteorological sounding. Twelve ascents have been made and measurements obtained up to 32 km. Results have been used to calculate stratospheric humidity profiles.