Objective
The first task of this research project is a study of surface UV irradiance changes, determined by stratospheric and tropospheric ozone variations. Regular ozone and solarsurface UV observations along the quasi-meridional transect from Greece to the European arctic with the use of a Dobson spectrophotometer, surface ozone sensors and aerosol sondes, and a UV-radiometer will be performed.
The second task will be to investigate the regional variability and predictability of total ozone changes (biorthogonal decomposition is to be used to substantiate a prediction model) and corresponding surface UV irradiance variations for assessment of the potential impact on human health and biosphere. This objective is assumed to be achievable on the basis of statistical analysis of satellite and surface observations data together with numerical simulation modelling. Statistical analysis of time series for total ozone in the regions of Athens and St. Petersburg (as case studies) with the use of the Karhunen-Loeve technique will be carried out.
The third task is to study the fine structure of the solar spectrum within Fraunhofer lines, its changes due to total ozone variations and biological logical consequences (influence on molecules of principal biological importance).
Numerical modelling of the impact of nitrogen and carbon containing pollutants on space and time variability of tropospheric ozone and other gases at the surface and in the lower troposphere under variable conditions of atmospheric turbidity and solar illumination (case studies of St. Petersburg and Athens) is the principal task of this study.
The experimental data will be used in models for validation and parametrisation purposes. Among others, the main expected achievements will be a better understanding of the spatial and temporal distribution of TOC and SUVR (solar ultraviolet radiation) irradiance and the improvement of model applications that will lead to to a better estimate of the evolution of these crucial atmospheric parameters. A completed study of biological consequences and the subsequent impact on the biosphere of the surface SUVR will become available.
A three-dimensional photochemical model of tropospheric ozone with an account of atmospheric dynamics, transport, radiation and photochemical kinetics will be developed to simulate surface ozone changes using the case studies of Athens and St. Petersburg.
Call for proposal
Data not availableFunding Scheme
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10680 Athens
Greece