Observations of Mesospheric Gravity Wave Dynamics in the Southern Hemisphere

Hill Aerospace Museum, Conference Room

Observations of mesospheric OH rotational temperature by the Mesospheric Temperature Mapper located at Cerro Pachon, Chile (30.3°S, 70.7°S) show a large range of variation. Temperature variances reveal increased activity due to mountain waves. Comparative studies with the satellite carried SABER instrument show agreement on nightly, as well as seasonal, temperature measurements. Comparisons with similar temperature measurements from Maui, Hawaii (20.8°N) reveal mountain wave activity to be enhanced over the Andes in the winter months. Initial gravity wave measurements from McMurdo Base, Antarctica are highlighted.