AIM SOFIE and Cloud Composition

The Solar Occultation For Ice Experiment (SOFIE) instrument uses solar occultation to measure cloud particles, temperature and atmospheric gases involved in forming the noctilucent clouds studied by the Aeronomy of Ice in the Mesosphere (AIM) spacecraft. The instrument will reveal the recipe of chemicals that prompt formation of polar mesospheric clouds. It will provide the most accurate and comprehensive look to date of ice particles and chemicals within the clouds as well as of the environment in which these clouds form.