Aura is a satellite that obtains measurements of ozone, aerosols and key gases throughout the atmosphere using technologically innovative space instrumentation. It is part of the Earth Science Projects Division, a program dedicated to monitoring the complex interactions that affect the globe using NASA satellites and data systems. Scientists use these data to gain revolutionary insights into the chemistry of our atmosphere.
Aura's four instruments study the atmosphere's chemistry and dynamics. Aura's measurements will enable us to investigate questions about ozone trends, air quality changes and their linkage to climate change. Aura's measurements will provide accurate data for predictive models and provide useful information for local and national agency decision support systems.
Aura's instruments measure trace gases in the atmosphere by detecting their unique spectral signatures. MLS observes the faint microwave emissions from rotating and vibrating molecules. HIRDLS and TES observe the infrared thermal emissions also due to molecular vibrations and rotations. OMI detects the molecular absorption of backscattered sunlight in the visible and ultraviolet wavelengths.
Horizon viewing (limb) instruments (MLS, TES and HIRDLS) slice through the atmosphere, profiling gases. Down-looking instruments (OMI and TES) stare at the Earth. Since MLS looks out the front of the spacecraft, it is the first to profile the atmosphere. The OMI and TES instruments then look at the same air mass as it passes beneath the spacecraft. As the spacecraft then moves on in its orbit, HIRDLS and TES profile the atmosphere again.
