Details of Award

NERC Reference : NE/C510059/1

Earth Observing System Microwave Limb Sounder: Application of water vapour data to the Earth's radiation balance.

Principal Investigator:: Dr HC Pumphrey, University of Edinburgh, Sch of Geosciences
Co-Investigator:: Professor (emeritus) R Harwood, University of Edinburgh, Sch of Geosciences
Grant held at:: University of Edinburgh, Sch of Geosciences

ENRIs:: Pollution and Waste; Global Change; Environmental Risks and Hazards
Science Topics:: Water In The Atmosphere; Stratospheric Processes; Radiative Processes & Effects; Climate & Climate Change

Abstract:: In order to predict changes in the Climate system with Confidence, we need to understand the processes which occur in it in some detail. Water vapour in the upper troposphere and lower stratosphere, and the clouds which form from it, are aspects of the climate system of which we need better measurements. EQS MLS is a new satellite instrument to be launched in 2004 by NASA, which will make such measurements. EQS MLS uses a proven and well-understood measurement technique, but it is the first instrument of its class to be designed to measure water vapour in the cloudy upper troposphere. EQS MLS is on the Aura satellite, which will fly in formation with the (already launched) Aqua satellite. Aqua carries instruments which form images of clouds, and which measure the energy flowing in and out of the Earth. The purpose of this project is to combine the EQS MLS data with that from Aqua. By doing this, we will answer two questions: * How well does the EQS MLS measurement technique work in the presence of clouds? * How do the clouds and water vapour affect the Earth's energy balance and hence its temperature?

Authorised funds only

This grant award has a total value of £233,214

Total - Staff	Total - T&S	Total - Other Costs	Total - Indirect Costs	Total - Equipment
£127,050	£9,982	£2,974	£75,003	£18,204

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