For example, our ozone photometer currently flies aboard NASA's high altitude WB57 research aircraft in missions to determine the ozone depletion that occurs in the plumes of spacecraft launched using solid rocket motors. We use similar TDL sensors to monitor the exchange of CO 2 between specific ecosystems, such as a forest, and the boundary layer. These studies are important in quantifying the carbon cycle budget and for understanding the feedback effects of global warming on local ecosystems. The group has a strong background in the optical characterization and microphysics of aerosols.
Stratospheric aerosols are of particular interest.
We are interested in both the heterogeneous chemistry that can occur on subclasses of these aerosols and which figures in the chemical cycles leading to polar ozone destruction, and in the optical scattering of these aerosols which impacts the radiation balance of the upper atmosphere. We maintain an electrodynamic balance for investigating optical scattering and chemical composition of single model stratospheric aerosols as those aerosols undergo variations in temperature and humidity. Many of our projects involve collaborations with colleagues at area universities. In situ air sampling probe for the PSI near-IR diode laser hygrometer mounted aboard the NASA P3B research aircraft. Physical Sciences Inc. Please contact Physical Sciences Inc. regarding requests for republication.