The Terrain-Induced Rotor Experiment (T-REX)
Abstract
The Terrain-induced Rotor Experiment (T-REX) is a coordinated international effort focused on exploring the structure and evolution of atmospheric rotors and associated phenomena in complex terrain. Atmospheric rotors are intense low-level horizontal vortices that form along an axis parallel to and downstream of a mountain ridge crest in association with large-amplitude mountain waves. High levels of turbulence characterize rotors, which are known to pose a great hazard to aviation. Recent numerical, theoretical, and observational studies of rotors show that rotors are strongly coupled to both the structure and evolution of overlying mountain waves and to the underlying boundary layer. Consequently, the overarching objective of T-REX is to study synergistic interaction between rotors, mountain waves, and boundary layer dynamics. The T-REX field campaign was centered on the Owens Valley in the lee of the southern Sierra Nevada in eastern California. This portion of the Sierra Nevada is the tallest, quasi two-dimensional topographic barrier in the contiguous United States; it includes the highest peak in the lower 48 states (Mt. Whitney 4,418 m) and the steepest lee slopes.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jan 01, 2007
- Accession Number
- ADA518505
Entities
People
- James D. Doyle
- V. Grubisic
Organizations
- United States Naval Research Laboratory