CEDAR
Coupling, Energetics and Dynamics of Atmospheric Regions Program
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Calculation of Launch Occultation Geometry into the Polar Night

Savannah
Church
Department of Physics, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University
Abstract text

Nitric Oxide (NO) plays a crucial role in the upper atmospheric energy balance and chemistry, particularly in the polar regions. During the polar night, NO concentrations are enhanced due to auroral energy deposition and the absence of sunlight, allowing NO to persist and descend into the lower atmosphere, where it can influence ozone chemistry and climate dynamics. However, most NO measurement techniques rely on sunlight, limiting observational data during this period.
The PolarNOx 2020 sounding rocket mission provided a significant advance-
ment in NO observations, detecting an abundance of NO at lower altitudes than typically observed outside the polar night. The upcoming PolarNOx 2026 mission aims to expand upon these findings by investigating NO dynamics under elevated geomagnetic conditions (Solar Maximum), when increased NO abundances are expected to descend into the lower atmosphere, potentially impacting long-term atmospheric composition.
To ensure optimal observational conditions, geometry calculations were con-
ducted to determine the best launch date and time, aligning with Polar Night
Maximums when NO concentrations are expected to peak. Two primary launch windows were identified: January 17–21 and January 26–February 1, with the optimal launch dates being January 19, 2026 and January 30, 2026. These dates were selected to maximize NO observations. Calculations were performed assuming the rocket’s apogee aligns with the Poker Flat launch site, ensuring consistency in observational positioning. Additionally, to minimize moonlight interference, the Moon, rocket, and reference star Algenib B were positioned at angles exceeding 90°, reducing potential contamination of NO measurements. By optimizing launch timing and observational conditions, the PolarNOx 2026 mission will provide critical insights into NO variability during the polar night, enhancing our understanding of solar-terrestrial interactions, atmospheric
chemistry, and their broader implications for climate dynamics.

Authors
Savannah Church, Department of Physics, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University
David Encarnacion, Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University
Scott Bailey, Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University
Justin Carstens, Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University
Sowmya Muthurangan, Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University
Samantha Kenyon, Department of Aerospace and Ocean Engineering, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University
Aklima Khatun, Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University
Student in poster competition
Poster category
ITIT - Instruments or Techniques for Ionospheric or Thermospheric Observation
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