Atmospheric Chemistry - Essay Example

The bottom line of the mission is to study Arctic zone depletion aside from understanding atmospheric phenomena, the effects of biomass burning to the atmosphere, and measuring the size and density of aerosols and Polar stratospheric Clouds (PSC). The planet where we thrive in is unique among the planets in our solar system. We can say that its composition is fairly simple especially if we will just confine our sight on the blanket of gases enveloping our lithosphere. Yet, beyond this simplicity are the more complex and dynamic chemical processes which support the ultimate existence of life.

However, as ages pass by, as man become more inclined to motivations and innovations, it is clear that this green planet is in grave danger. The effects of climate change and global warming is of great concern among countries nowadays. In an article by Naomi Oreskes entitled BEYOND THE IVORY TOWER: The Scientific Consensus on Climate Change, it is pointed out that climate change issues still baffle scientists and that continuous researches are needed for this to be well understood. However, the connection of climate change with human activities cannot be denied.

And it is man's utmost responsibility to give back to the Earth that nurtures him. Thus, there are steps needed to be taken, missions to be launched, and the voyage goes on. August 12, 2003, on board the Canadian satellite SCISAT-1 is a satel. Indeed, this shows that issues concerning the Earth are of everyone's great concern and interest. The ACE was launched at an inclination of 74, 650 km from the Earth's surface. This position allows the satellite to gather data from the tropical, mid-latitude and Polar Regions.

The ACE mission includes the exploration of the relationship between atmospheric chemistry and climate change, the understanding of stratospheric phenomena that affects the distribution and the decline of ozone, studying the effects of biomass burning, measuring the size and density of aerosols and polar stratospheric clouds (PSC). The bottom line of the mission, however, is focused on the atmospheric ozone problem which is being currently experienced not just in the Antarctic but also in the Arctic region of the globe.

For these to be possible, the mission carried with it two sophisticated instruments that are capable of obtaining the needed measurements and data. ACE-FTS (Fourier Transform Spectrometer) is a kind of Fourier Transform instrument that measures the vertical distribution of trace gases and temperature. Skoog et al., describes that Fourier Transform instruments are characterized but their great speed, high resolution, high sensitivity, and excellent wavelength precision and accuracy. A Fourier Transform spectrometer is capable of detecting all the wavelengths of electromagnetic radiation simultaneously and all the time.

A device called a Michelson interferometer makes it possible for Fourier Transform instruments to precisely measure the wavelengths of electromagnetic radiation. On the other hand, another instrument called the MAESTRO (measurement of Aerosol Extinction in the