Articles | Volume 15, issue 17
https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-15-9917-2015
https://doi.org/10.5194/acp-15-9917-2015
Research article
 | 
02 Sep 2015
Research article |  | 02 Sep 2015

Meteor radar quasi 2-day wave observations over 10 years at Collm (51.3° N, 13.0° E)

F. Lilienthal and Ch. Jacobi

Abstract. The quasi 2-day wave (QTDW) at 82–97 km altitude over Collm (51° N, 13° E) has been observed using a VHF meteor radar. The long-term mean amplitudes calculated using data between September 2004 and August 2014 show a strong summer maximum and a much weaker winter maximum. In summer, the meridional amplitude is slightly larger than the zonal one with about 15 m s−1 at 91 km height. Phase differences are slightly greater than 90° on an average. The periods of the summer QTDW vary between 43 and 52 h during strong bursts, while in winter the periods tend to be more diffuse. On average, the summer QTDW is amplified after a maximum of zonal wind shear which is connected with the summer mesospheric jet and there is a possible correlation of the summer mean amplitudes with the background wind shear. QTDW amplitudes exhibit considerable inter-annual variability; however, a relationship between the 11-year solar cycle and the QTDW is not found.

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Short summary
The quasi 2-day wave (QTDW), one of the most striking features in the mesosphere/lower thermosphere, is analyzed using meteor radar measurements at Collm (51°N, 13°E) during 2004-2014. The QTDW has periods lasting between 43 and 52h during strong summer bursts, and weaker enhancements are found during winter. A correlation between QTDW amplitudes and wind shear suggests baroclinic instability to be a likely forcing mechanism.
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