The noneffect of solar eclipses on the atmosphere

The effects of the removal of solar radiation, through solar eclipse, on the structure of the thermosphere are examined. The March 7, 1970 eclipse was explored with pilot probe rockets at times during the 42 minute period corresponding to 40, 80, and 100 percent totality. Measuring results show small temperature disturbances especially below 90 km. At levels above 100 km, temperature changes were very large. Results also show that temperature profiles have a warming trend at the start of the eclipse followed by a continuous cooling as the eclipse progresses.