Observations of the quasi‐two‐day wave in the middle and lower atmosphere over Christmas Island

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Abstract
We present analyses of data collected at Christmas Island in the mesosphere and lower thermosphere using a meteor echo detection and collection system (MEDAC) in addition to data collected in the troposphere and lower stratosphere using a clear air stratosphere/troposphere (ST) radar. These data, which provide 5 years of semicontinuous horizontal wind velocity estimates, are analyzed to determine the temporal structure of the quasi‐two‐day wave in the middle and lower atmosphere. Our results show the presence of strong wave activity in the middle atmosphere during late January and early February as well as a secondary maxima in June/August for each of the years we have data. However, the magnitude and duration of the wave events observed in late January and early February exhibit interannual variability.