Network for the detection of stratospheric change (NDSC)

The notion of a ground-based long-term measuring network specifically designed to provide the earliest possible detection of changes in the composition and structure of the stratosphere and to understand the causes of those changes is examined. The network's short-term goals are: to study the temporal and spatial variability of atmospheric composition and structure; to provide the basis for ground truth and complementary measurements for satellite systems such as the NASA Upper Atmosphere Research Satellite; and to critically test multidimensional stratospheric models and provide the broad data base required for improved model development. Priorities, instrumentation, station considerations, and site requirements are also discussed.