Science Objectives

The primary science objective of the TIMED mission is to understand the energy transfer into and out of the Mesosphere and Lower Thermosphere/Ionosphere (MLTI) region of the Earth's atmosphere (energetics), as well as the basic structure (i.e., pressure, temperature, and winds) that results from the energy transfer into the region (dynamics).

Located between approximately 40-110 miles (60-180 kilometers) above the Earth's surface, the MLTI region is sensitive to external influences from the sun above and atmospheric layers below it. Its chemical and thermal balance can change rapidly due to naturally-occurring and/or human-induced changes to the energy contained within this region.

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TIMED is employing advances in remote-sensing technology to globally observe this relatively unexplored frontier from space, making direct measurements of the MLTI region's various energy inputs and outputs and acquiring measurements of its wind, density and temperature profiles. These measurements will provide critical empirical data to help scientists better understand this region's energy balance. The 2-year mission will establish a baseline for future investigations of the MLTI region, providing a basis for early warning of global change.

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