ARMACMEVI

ARM Airborne Carbon Measurements (ARM-ACME VI)

1 October 2015 - 30 September 2016

Lead Scientist: Sebastien Biraud

Observatory: AAF, SGP

Airborne (ARM-ACME) observations and analysis of atmospheric trace gases in the Southern Great Plains (SGP) are contributing to research on regional carbon budgets, atmospheric dynamics, and satellite validation, generating 20 publications (18 published and 2 submitted) in the past four years. We will continue our airborne study of atmospheric composition and carbon cycling in the SGP. The goals of this measurement program are to improve understanding of: (a) land-atmosphere carbon exchanges in the SGP region; (b) how CO2, CH4 and associated water and energy fluxes influence CO2 and CH4 concentrations; and (c) how greenhouse gases are transported on continental scales. During flights, we will measure CO2, CH4 and meteorological data continuously and collect flasks for a rich suite of additional gases: CO2, CH4, CO, N2O, 13CO2, 14CO2, carbonyl sulfide (COS), and many trace hydrocarbon species. The main objectives of these regular weekly flights are to quantify trends and variability in atmospheric concentrations of CO2, CH4, and other greenhouse gases in North America and to improve understanding and modeling of boundary layer-free troposphere exchange dynamics. Data will be processed, archived, and analyzed in support of these objectives.