The upper atmosphere research satellite

Abstract

The NASA Upper Atmosphere Research Satellite (UARS), whose launch is scheduled for 1991, will compile the most extensive data base to date on the coupled chemistry, energetics, and dynamics of the upper atmosphere, thereby directly addressing questions as to the extent of ozone depletion as a result of stratospheric photodissociation of molecules by solar UV radiation. The research efforts undertaken will give attention to the poorly-understood 15-100 km altiture region. Nominal mission lifetime will be 18 months, due to the projected lifetime of the cryogen employed by the Cryogenic Limb-Scanning Atmospheric Emission Spectrometer.