Retrieval of global hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) profiles using ENVISAT-MIPAS

• Published in: Geophysical Research Letters
• Main Authors: PAPANDREA, ENZO, A. Dudhia, R. G. Grainger, X. Vancassel, M. P. Chipperfield
• Other Authors: E. Papandrea, M.P. Chipperfield
• Format: Article in Journal/Newspaper
• Language: English
• Published: 2005
• Subjects: Retrieval of atmospheric gases; Antarc*; Antarctic
• Online Access: http://hdl.handle.net/11585/11191; https://doi.org/10.1029/2005GL022870

We have used spectra from the Michelson Interferometer for Passive Atmospheric Sounding (MIPAS) to perform the first global retrievals of stratospheric H2O2. We demonstrate the feasibility of profile retrievals in the range 6–35 km and obtain zonal mean maps that average profiles computed from consecutive MIPAS orbits for the periods: December 2002, March, June and September 2003. The retrieved H2O2 values show an equatorial mid-stratospheric peak, enhanced values in the Antarctic springtime lower stratosphere, and diurnal/seasonal variability. Our retrieved H2O2 profiles are in qualitative agreement with expected photochemistry and with a previous balloon flight.