Fahey, D.W., E.R. Keim, K.A. Boering, C.A. Brock, J.C. Wilson, H.H. Jonsson, S. Anthony, T.F. Hanisco, and P. Wennberg (1995), Emission Measurements of the Concorde Supersonic Aircraft in the Lower Stratosphere, Science, 270, 070-74.
Abstract
Emission indices of reactive gases and particles were determined from measurements in
the exhaust plume of a Concorde aircraft cruising at supersonic speeds in the stratosphere. Values for NO, (sum of NO and NO2) agree well with ground-based estimates. Measurements of NO, and HO, indicate a limited role for nitric acid in the plume. The large number of submicrometer particles measured implies efficient conversion of fuel sulfur to sulfuric acid in the engine or at emission. A new fleet of supersonic aircraft with similar particle emissions would significantly increase stratospheric aerosol surface areas and may increase ozone loss above that expected for NO, emissions alone.
Research Program
Upper Atmosphere Research Program (UARP)