Feb 3 1992
From The Space Library
According to some scientists, recent observations by NASA's Upper Atmosphere Research Satellite (UARS) have shown exceptionally high levels of chlorine monoxide (CIO) at high northern latitudes, raising the possibility of enhanced ozone depletion over populated areas of the Earth. UARS's Microwave Limb Sounder (MLS) detected elevated levels of CIO over large areas of Europe and Asia north of about 50 degrees latitude. Dr. Joe Waters of NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory said that high CIO levels were observed over Scandinavia and Northern Eurasia, including the cities of London, Moscow, and Amsterdam. These CIO levels, approximately one part billion by volume, are comparable to levels observed within the Antarctic ozone hole. Waters said that sustained levels of CIO could lead to significant ozone destruction over the northern hemisphere and perhaps even lead to an ozone hole over the Arctic. (NASA Release 92-18)
It was reported that NASA's decision to kill off a multibillion-dollar program to develop a new, more powerful Solid Rocket Booster for the Space Shuttle fleet was a carefully planned move actually intended to help save the project. The advanced solid-rocket motor program, which would have cost nearly $500 million in 1993, was eliminated with the expectation that funds for the project would be restored by Representative Jamie L. Whitten (D-Miss.), chairman of the House Appropriations Committee. (LA Times, Feb 3/92)
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