There is a growing need for continuous monitoring of atmospheric
constituents. This has been emphasized recently by the controversy over
potentially adverse effects of high-flying aircraft, space shuttles, and even
aerosol spray propellants on the life-sustaining ozone layer in the
stratosphere. Moreover, the widespread use of more polluting fuels due
to dwindling energy resources may produce serious consequences (such
as reducing the amount of useful solar energy reaching the earth's
surface, changing the earth's heat balance, and degrading air quality in
the lower atmosphere) which have yet to be fully understood. Mathematical
models of the atmosphere are needed in order to be able to
predict the environmental impact of increased source pollution and take
the necessary corrective action in a timely and cost-effective manner.
The development of these models and the associated continuous
surveillance require a wide range of monitoring capabilities.