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Tilting-filter measurements in dayglow rocket photometry
Applied Optics
|February 2, 2010
Summary
A rocket-borne photometer accurately measured day airglow emissions, providing reliable intensity profiles down to 90 km. This study validates tilting filters for precise atmospheric measurements.
Area of Science:
- Atmospheric physics
- Aeronomy
- Optical physics
Background:
- The day airglow contains important information about atmospheric processes.
- Measuring specific emission lines, like oxygen's [OI] at 6300Å and 5577Å, is crucial for understanding these processes.
- Accurate measurements require instruments that can correct for background continuum and solar interference.
Purpose of the Study:
- To describe a rocket-borne photometer designed for day airglow measurements.
- To validate the use of tilting filters for accurate airglow intensity profiling.
- To present reliable height profiles of specific airglow emission lines.
Main Methods:
- Utilized a rocket-borne photometer equipped with two tilting-filter channels.
- Measured the [OI] (Oxygen, neutral) 6300Å and 5577Å emission lines.
- Employed tilting filters to correct for background continuum and solar baffling.
Main Results:
- Demonstrated the effectiveness of tilting filters for accurate background correction.
- Obtained reliable height profiles of airglow emission intensity down to approximately 90 km.
- Successfully calibrated the instrument and addressed solar baffling issues.
Conclusions:
- The described rocket-borne photometer and its tilting-filter system are effective for day airglow studies.
- Tilting filters provide a reliable method for obtaining accurate airglow intensity profiles.
- The instrument's performance allows for detailed atmospheric analysis at lower altitudes.
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