Research

To improve climate and weather predictability through the study of atmospheric processes that drive circulation and composition variability and change, with a focus on the coupling between the stratosphere and troposphere.

Our current research focuses on the following related topics:

Water vapor variability and trends

Water vapor provides the most important radiative feedback in response to anthropogenic greenhouse gas changes. We provide the world's largest aircraft climatology of water vapor and ice clouds in the upper troposphere and lower stratosphere.

Greenhouse gases and ozone depleting substances

Long-lived greenhouse gases and ozone depleting substances exert a significant influence on the chemical composition and dynamic structure of the stratosphere. We measure more than 30 important substances using the new air-core technique flying within the mini-balloon program.

Impact of hydrogen on atmosphere and climate

Due to the phasing out of fossil fuels, hydrogen (H2) is becoming increasingly important. The energetic use of H2 only produces water, but leakages are unavoidable in the large-scale use of hydrogen. We are investigating their impact on the atmosphere and climate.

Variability and trends of the stratospheric circulation

The global stratospheric circulation, termed the Brewer-Dobson circulation (BDC), controls the transport of trace gas species (e.g. ozone, water vapor – link to “water vapor”) which, in turn, can influence climate through radiative effects. Furthermore, variations in the stratospheric circulation may influence regional climate and weather patterns.

Waves, winds and circulation

Breaking waves are a main driver of the circulation in the middle atmosphere. We investigate different wave types in airborne and satellite observations and model data and evaluate the balance of momentum.

The Asian summer monsoon influences global climate

The Asian summer monsoon transports ground-level air pollution into the upper troposphere and lower stratosphere and thereby influences the climate worldwide. We investigate the global impact of the Asian summer monsoon by combining innovative aircraft and satellite observations with process-oriented model simulations.

Wildfires, Volcanic eruptions and climate intervention

Aerosols in the stratosphere play a crucial role in the Earth’s climate system by scattering solar radiation, which directly impacts global temperatures. Various events, such as volcanic eruptions, extreme wildfires, and artificial solar geoengineering, can significantly increase stratospheric aerosol concentrations.

Synergetic use of instruments and models

We develop novel instruments for research balloons and aircraft (e.g. HALO), as well as mini-satellites, and contribute to the development of ESA Earth observation missions (e.g. CAIRT). Data analysis is closely linked to process-oriented simulations (CLaMS) and Earth system modeling.

Data science and research data management

Big data and artificial intelligence methods become increasingly important and require cutting-edge technologies like exa-scale computing, robust data infrastructures, and interdisciplinary expertise. We advance atmospheric research through the strategic application of data science and research data management.

Publications of the ICE-4

The results of our research are regularly published in the scientific literature. We also make key contributions to international assessments carried out by institutions such as WMO, IPCC and SPARC, which form the basis of decisions taken by policy makers in the field of atmospheric research and climate research. You can find information on past and present IEK-7 publications.