Detail Project and Funding

Abstract: CoMPASs aims to extend our understanding of the mechanisms underlying the atmospheric system through a multi-process study that exploits the Antarctic region as a specific vantage point. The portion of the atmosphere that is studied extends from the planetary boundary layer to the stratosphere. Subject of the analysis will be the micro-meteorological processes in the atmospheric boundary layer, the mechanisms of formation of clouds – and their influence on Earth’s radiation budget – and the problems related to the ozone cycle inside of the polar vortex. Particular attention will be paid to feedback mechanisms between the various processes. The French-Italian Concordia station at Dome C is the perfect site to carry out the proposed study, as it is a permanent station on the plateau, within the region of the polar vortex. The proposed work involves a substantial observational component carried on through both remote sensing instruments operating from the ground (spectrometers, lidar, sodar) and in-situ sensors, all of proved and established effectiveness. The observations will be supported by data analysis and modeling methods already available in the proponent institutions.

INO’s Experiments/Theoretical Study correlated:
Atmospheric Radition Explorer in the Far InfraRed