An experience of participation of Russian specialists in international programs on atmospheric balloon investigations

The participation of Russian specialists in the international programs on balloon investigations of the ozone layer in the Arctic and in midlatitudes has been carried out since 1991. The specialists of Roshydromet took part in the organization and implementation of investigations in the Arctic and in midlatitudes within 11 projects as well as in tropical balloon campaigns. During this period, 42 balloon flights of different types were organized on the territory of Russia for the purpose of the measurement of atmospheric characteristics, of the validation of satellite device data, of the test of prototypes of future satellite meters. Besides, the investigations of ozone, water vapor, and aerosol content were carried out in various geographical zones (Hayes and Dickson islands, Salekhard, Yakutsk) using the small-volume balloons. The optical fluorescent hygrometer of the Central Aerological Observatory (CAO) is considered as one of the best instruments to measure the atmospheric humidity. Taking account of the reliability and accuracy of the measurements carried out, the values of the water vapor mixing ratio in the winter polar cyclone obtained with this hygrometer can be considered as the reference data.