Measurements at the Mauna Loa Observatory stopped after the 2022 eruption of the Mauna Loa volcano, when lava flow crossed the access road and took out power lines to the facility. The observatory remains inaccessible by vehicle and without power from the local utility company.

Observatory staff has established limited solar power in four observatory buildings and restored approximately 33 percent of the measurements onsite, including the Global Monitoring Laboratory and Scripps critical CO2 records and other atmospheric measurements.

Media can contact: Theo Stein (303) 819-7409 (theo.stein@noaa.gov) or Karin Vergoth 303-632-6413‬ (karin.vergoth@noaa.gov)

Organization(s):

NOAA logo National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), Earth System Research Laboratory (ESRL)

NDSC logo Network For the Detection of Atmospheric Composition Change (NDACC)

NIWA logo National Institute of Water and Atmospheric Research (NIWA)

What does this program measure?

The Bromine Oxide (BrO) monitor measures the zenith skylight between 340 and 390 nm. This instrument is also used to monitor Chlorine Dioxide (OCLO).

How does this program work?

Shown Below, the Nitrogen Dioxide and Bromine Oxide sensor covers on the Mauna Loa Sun Deck, where solar radiation is measured.

Sensor coverings on Mauna Loa sun deck

Why is this research important?

In order to carry out continuous monitoring of BrO at MLO.

Are there any trends in the data?

How does this program fit into the big picture?

What is it's role in global climate change?

Comments and References

Lead Investigator(s):

Paul V. Johnston (NIWA)
011-643-440-0429

MLO Contact(s):

Paul Fukumura
808-933-6965 (x223)
Dr. John E. Barnes
808-933-6965 (x222)

Web Site(s)

www.niwa.co.nz

gml.noaa.gov/grad/
uv.html

Date Started

July 9, 1996

Related Programs

NDACC
Cooperative

Photographs:
Nitrous Oxide and Bromine Oxide sensor coverings at MLO
Bromine Oxide (near) and Nitrogen Dioxide (far) sensor chimneys