Comparison of middle- and low-latitude sodium layer from a ground-based lidar network, the Odin satellite, and WACCM–Na model

Abstract. The ground-based measurements obtained from a lidar network and the 6-year OSIRIS (optical spectrograph infrared imager system) limb-scanning radiance made by Odin satellite are used to study climatology of middle- low-latitude sodium (Na) layer. Up January 2021, four Na resonance fluorescence lidars at Beijing (40.5∘ N, 116.0∘ E), Hefei (31.8∘ 117.3∘ Wuhan (30.5∘ 114.4∘ Haikou (19.5∘ 109.1∘ E) collected vertical profiles density for total 2136 nights (19 587 h). These large datasets provide multi-year routine layer with exceptionally high temporal resolution. particularly useful filling in data gaps since were not during dark winter months because they utilize solar-pumped atoms. observations layers comprehensively compared global model meteoric atmosphere (WACCM–Na). present unique test WACCM (Whole Atmosphere Community Climate Model), cover latitude range along 120∘ E longitude an unusual geographic location significant gravity wave generation. In general, good agreement is found between observations, measurements, simulations. On other hand, number larger than that stations within one standard deviation monthly average, autumn early arising uncertainties retrieved much less measurements. underestimates seasonal variability observed lower (Wuhan Haikou). This discrepancy suggests constituent transport modelled underestimated spectrum captured model.