Stratospheric Balloon Aerosol Particle Counter Measurements.
Abstract
A balloon-borne submicron aerosol counter developed under previous Air Force contracts was successfully flown on three stratospheric balloon experiments over Holloman AFB, New Mexico in May of 1973. The results indicate that particulate matter at higher levels is characterized by markedly different scattering parameters than is the case at lower levels. This effect is manifested in the form of exceedingly sharp cut-offs in the size distribution at about 0.4 micrometer diameter, which is only observed above 23 km. The extent to which this sharp cut-off is attributable either to nonspherical particles or to index of refraction uncertainties rather than to the actual size distribution, is a matter of conjecture. Recommendations for equipment modifications tending to eliminate these ambiguities, are discussed. Also described here are the several hardware and software modifications incorporated in the system under the present contract in preparation for these flights. (Author)
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Nov 01, 1973
- Accession Number
- AD0777135
Entities
People
- Henry A. Miranda Jr.
- Henry P. Miranda
- John Dulchinos