STATE OF THE UPPER ATMOSPHERE

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Abstract
This paper lays the foundation for development of upper-atmosphere meteorology between heights of 90 and 400 kilometers on the basis of ionospheric measurements. A theory is outlined whereby measurements of the ionosphere permit deduction of five quantities descriptive of the state of the high atmosphere. Application of the theory is made to data from eighteen widely separated locations over the earth for January 1947. Calculations are presented and used in construction of isopleths on a world-wide scale. It is found that cells of high and low temperature are systematically developed in northern and southern hemispheres. Results are compared with findings of other investigators. It is shown that the recombination coefficient between electrons and positive ions is not pressure-sensitive within an ionospheric layer and that the recombination coefficient is not dependent upon the electron density. Temperature gradients found suggest strong wind systems, pronounced convection currents, and considerable turbulence.

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