First detection of ammonia in the upper troposphere

Distribution of average volume mixing ratios of ammonia at 15 km altitude in June, July and August 2008 derived from MIPAS. Shaded areas indicate measurement gaps due to high clouds.

Ammonia (NH₃) is important because of its influence on aerosol and cloud formation and its increasing anthropogenic emissions. By analysis of infrared limb emission spectra measured by the MIPAS instrument, NH₃ has been detected in the upper troposphere for the first time. We have found enhanced values of NH₃ within the Asian summer Monsoon upper troposphere where it might contribute to the composition of the Asian Tropopause Aerosol Layer.

For more information:
Press release: http://www.kit.edu/kit/english/pi_2016_158_first-detection-of-ammonia-in-the-upper-troposphere.php
Publication: http://www.atmos-chem-phys.net/16/14357/2016/