Calibration, testing and orbital performance of the halogen occultation experiment (HALOE) on the upper atmosphere research satellite

HALOE is an occultation viewing radiometer that requires part per million signal precision and characterization. Gas correlation radiometry is used to infer HF HCl, CH4 and NO concentrations, while broad band radiometry is used for temperature, pressure, O3, H2O and NO2. Validated results verify that goals have been met or exceeded in all channels. This was achieved through a comprehensive instrument analysis and calibration process on the ground and in orbit. Components and systems were put through a battery of tests in the lab. In orbit, a variety of exoatmospheric solar disk measurements are used for precise real time inferral of critical calibration parameters. In the end, technical success was based on the close interaction of scientist, engineer and data analysts. The accuracy and precision of HALOE species profiles are equal to any ever achieved from orbiting sensors.