Atmospheric Science Collection

Neptune, Voyager 2 image
Neptune. Neptune is a gas giant, composed mostly of hydrogen and helium with some methane. Seen at centre is the Great Dark Spot, thought to be a hole in the methane cloud deck of Neptune

Water vapour maps of Antarctica, 2004
Water vapour maps of Antarctica. Satellite images of the increase in water vapour over Antarctica from 13 August to 14 October 2004 (the austral spring)

Soviet Antarctic expedition, 1980
Soviet Antarctic expedition. Aerologist of the 25th Soviet Antarctic expedition releasing a weather balloon at the Molodezhnaya research station, Antarctica. Photographed in 1980

19th Century anemometer
19th Century copper anemometer. Anemometers are devices for measuring wind speed. Made in 1880

1930s Dust Bowl drought explained C016 / 8123
1930s Dust Bowl drought explained. Computer artwork showing how, during the 1930s, cooler than normal tropical Pacific Ocean temperatures (blues)

Joseph Louis Gay-Lussac, French chemist
Joseph Louis Gay-Lussac (1778-1850), French chemist. In 1804, Gay-Lussac made balloon ascents to measure changes in magnetism and air composition with altitude

Carbon dioxide levels, Atlantic, 2003
Atmospheric carbon dioxide levels centred on the Atlantic Ocean, satellite data. Carbon dioxide (CO2) is a greenhouse gas that contributes to global warming

Global methane concentration, 2004
Global methane concentration. Map showing the concentration of methane (CH4) gas in the stratosphere (about 10-50 kilometres in altitude) on 25th July 2004

Camille Flammarion, French astronomer
Camille Flammarion (1842-1925), French astronomer and author, at home in his study. In 1882, after working for the Paris Observatory, Flammarion founded L Astronomie

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Atmospheric science, the study of Earth's ever-changing atmosphere, unveils a captivating world filled with mysteries and wonders. Just like Neptune, the enigmatic blue giant in our solar system, atmospheric science delves into the depths of our own planet's celestial envelope. Voyager 2's mesmerizing image of Neptune serves as a reminder that there is still so much to explore and understand about this intricate realm. In 2004, water vapor maps of Antarctica provided invaluable insights into the delicate balance within our atmosphere. These maps shed light on how this remote icy continent influences global weather patterns and climate change. Looking back to history, we recall the Soviet Antarctic expedition of 1980 which contributed significantly to our knowledge of atmospheric dynamics in extreme environments. Their brave efforts paved the way for future research in understanding how these regions impact global weather systems. From ancient times to modern advancements, tools such as the 19th-century anemometer have allowed scientists to measure wind speed and direction - crucial elements in comprehending atmospheric behavior. Meanwhile, groundbreaking discoveries like Joseph Louis Gay-Lussac's investigations into gases laid foundations for understanding their role within our atmosphere. The significance of molecules cannot be overstated when discussing atmospheric science – from carbon dioxide (CO2) molecules influencing climate change to ozone (O3) molecules protecting us from harmful ultraviolet radiation. The delicate balance between these compounds shapes Earth's climate and health. Examining specific instances like the Dust Bowl drought explained by C016 /8123 model developed during the 1930s provides valuable lessons on human impacts on weather patterns through land use practices. Monitoring carbon dioxide levels across different regions such as Atlantic waters in 2003 or tracking global methane concentrations in 2004 allows scientists to assess changes over time. These measurements are vital for understanding how human activities affect greenhouse gas emissions and contribute to climate change challenges we face today.