The Brewer‐Dobson Circulation In the Light of High Altitude In Situ Aircraft Observations

Abstract Fast response in situ measurements of a suite of chemical species made from the NASA ER2 high altitude aircraft, between 60°N and 70°S at potential temperatures up to 530 K from March to November 1994 at longitudes 115° W to 150°E, are considered for the view they offer of the Brewer‐Dobson circulation in the lower stratosphere and upper troposphere. In the southern hemisphere, where most of the flights occurred, comparisons are made with measurements taken in August/September 1987 at longitudes 120° W to 60° W to examine temporal and longitudinal differences. Interpretations made suggest conceptual modifications to the simple construct of advection in a two dimensional long‐term mean.