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On the global mean temperature of the thermosphereIt is pointed out that the global mean temperature structure of the thermosphere above 120 km is primarily maintained by the absorption of solar extreme ultraviolet (EUV) flux at wavelengths less than 1025 A and solar ultraviolet (UV) flux. A number of previous calculations of the global mean temperature profile have determined that it is not possible to obtain agreement between the calculated global mean exospheric temperature and observed values. Since those studies, a considerable amount of new information on this problem has been obtained, including data obtained with the aid of the Atmospheric Explorer satellites. The present investigation is, therefore, concerned with a reexamination of the question whether there is enough solar UV radiation and auroral energy input to maintain the observed global mean temperature structure of the thermosphere above 120 km. It is found that for solar cycle minimum conditions there is an approximate balance between absorbed solar radiation and downward molecular thermal conduction.
Document ID
19830057297
Acquisition Source
Legacy CDMS
Document Type
Reprint (Version printed in journal)
Authors
Roble, R. G.
(National Center for Atmospheric Research Boulder, CO, United States)
Emergy, B. A.
(National Center for Atmospheric Research Boulder, CO, United States)
Date Acquired
August 11, 2013
Publication Date
June 1, 1983
Publication Information
Publication: Planetary and Space Science
Volume: 31
ISSN: 0032-0633
Subject Category
Geophysics
Accession Number
83A38515
Funding Number(s)
CONTRACT_GRANT: NASA ORDER S-41815-B
Distribution Limits
Public
Copyright
Other

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