Cryogenic, whole-air sampler and program for stratospheric composition studies

A program has been initiated to measure the stratospheric content of NO, NO2, CO, SO2, CH4, NH3 and other trace gases which may influence our environment. The initial or baseline concentrations of these gases are being measured as a function of altitude and latitude. Subsequent measurements will indicate any time dependency in these concentrations and permit a possible correlation with increased Air Force stratospheric operations. Latitudes from Panama to Alaska and altitudes from 12 to 30 km will be investigated.