Development of a Vector Spherical Harmonic (VSH) Model of the Neutral Thermosphere.
Abstract
The Air Force has requirements for accurate knowledge and specification of the state variables of the Earth's thermosphere. Work done under this contract will lead to a new model of global thermospheric density that can be used to specify and forecast neutral densities, temperatures, and winds for a wide range of solar and geomagnetic activity. The model will be based on simulations made with the National Center for Atmospheric Research (NCAR) Thermosphere/Ionosphere General Circulation Model (TIGCM) and on data. It will be capable of using real-time geophysical indices or data from ground-based and satellite inputs and will provide neutral variables at specified locations and times in the altitude range 90 - 1500 km. This hybrid theoretical and semi- empirical model will be based on a new Vector Spherical Harmonic (VSH) analysis technique developed at the University of Michigan that permits the incorporation of the TIGCM outputs and data into the model. The VSH model will be provided for use by the Air Force in an operational setting and will be a more accurate version of existing models of the neutral upper atmosphere. This technical report describes the progress in the development of the hybrid model.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Mar 01, 1990
- Accession Number
- ADA234744
Entities
People
- Raymond G. Roble
- Timothy L. Killeen
Organizations
- University of Michigan