Incoherent scatter radar and optical observations of the mesosphere and lower thermosphere at Arecibo

During 2002 and 2003, the Arecibo incoherent scatter radar and optical instruments were used to carry out mesosphere and the lower thermosphere observations two days per month. The operational modes were designed to maximize scientific collaborations with various TIMED instruments. The incoherent scatter radar took electron density, wind and temperature data in the mesosphere and the lower thermosphere. Resonant lidars measured the potassium, sodium and iron density as well as temperature in the mesopause region. In this talk, we present examples of various data that have been taken at Arecibo and hope to establish broad collaborations with colleagues working with TIMED instruments.