The Ministry of Science & Technology announced that scientists have found a thick ozone layer at 21‑23 km over the North Bay of Bengal. The discovery helps understand how air currents move ozone in the stratosphere. The research was led by the Aryabhatta Research Institute of Observational Sciences (ARIES) as part of the NetRAD‑ASMA campaign.
Key Developments
- Detection of an unusually thick ozone layer at 21‑23 km, persisting for more than a day.
- Data collected from a network of radars, weather balloons, Aura MLS and INSAT‑3DR satellites.
- Use of the indigenously developed Stratosphere–Troposphere Radar at ARIES, Nainital, along with similar radars at Haringhata, Gadanki and Kochi.
- Identification of persistent downward air motion and compression as the main drivers of ozone enrichment.
Important Facts
The enhanced ozone layer was observed both during day and night, ruling out photochemical production as the primary cause. Balloon‑borne ozone sensors, radar‑derived vertical wind profiles, and satellite observations all pointed to a transport‑driven mechanism: ozone‑rich air from higher altitudes moved downward, increasing concentration at 21‑23 km. The phenomenon lasted for over 24 hours, indicating a stable atmospheric configuration.
Exam Relevance
Understanding ozone dynamics is vital for environmental policy and climate change discussions (GS3). The study showcases the role of inter‑institutional coordination and indigenous technology in advancing scientific research, a key theme in Science & Technology governance (GS4). Aspirants should note how atmospheric observations inform international commitments like the Montreal Protocol and India's own climate action plans.
Way Forward
- Expand the radar‑balloon‑satellite network to cover the entire Indian subcontinent for continuous monitoring.
- Integrate findings into regional climate models to improve prediction of UV exposure and stratospheric ozone recovery.
- Promote further indigenous development of atmospheric instrumentation to reduce reliance on foreign assets.
- Use the data to guide policy on aviation routes and emissions that may affect stratospheric chemistry.
Overall, the ARIES‑led investigation provides a template for how coordinated, multi‑platform observations can unravel complex atmospheric processes, strengthening India’s capacity to address environmental challenges.