Characterization of the middle and upper atmosphere temperatures by Rayleigh scattering Lidar

The temperature plays a critical role in atmospheric research. A measurement system based on Rayleigh scattering Lidar was developed in this study to detect mid and upper-level atmospheric temperature. To analyze the error introduced by the calibration point temperature, the echo signal was simulated. The continuously measured atmospheric temperature structure is stable. The measured atmospheric temperature profile follows the same trend as the atmospheric mode, as shown by comparison with different modes and balloons. The mean difference between the measured atmospheric temperature and the balloon temperature is 2.59 K, with the error mostly concentrated below 5 K. Continuous observation of atmospheric temperature using the system revealed the occurrence of temperature-induced gravity waves at a vertical wavelength from 2 to 3 km at an altitude between 30 and 45 m. Partial fragmentation occurs when energy dissipation is performed in the low-frequency mode from 38 to 45 km. This system was demonstrated to effectively detect temperature and continuously observe gravity waves, with its accuracy confirmed by comparison with balloon temperature measurements.