Multi-beam radar observations of polar mesosphere summer echoes during the MIDAS/DROPPS/MiniDUSTY campaign at Andenes, Norway in July 1999 Original Research Article

The dynamical and physical parameters of polar mesosphere summer echoes (PMSE) and noctilucent clouds (NLC) have been studied using co-ordinated rocket, radar, and lidar experiments (ALWIN MST radar, ALOMAR MF radar, and ALOMAR RMR lidar) at Andenes, Norway during the MIDAS/DROPPS/Mini-DUSTY campaign. A strong, long lasting PMSE event connected with a weak NLC was present during the first salvo on July 5/6, 1999. The ALWIN MST radar (53.5 MHz) performed spaced antenna measurements and Doppler beam steering observations using nine beam directions (vertical beam and oblique beams at 7° and 14° off-zenith). For the first time radar observations were possible along rocket trajectories allowing common-volume observations on intersections at altitudes between 75 and 90 km. The observed PMSE characteristics (echo power, aspect sensitivity, spatial coherence, wind field) are discussed with particular emphasis to the times of rocket soundings.