The effect of Forbush decreases on tropospheric parameters over South Pole

Egorova et al. (2000) conclude that Forbush decreases (FDs) in galactic cosmic rays have a significant effect on the atmosphere at Antarctic station Vostok (78.5°S, 106.9°E) via the mechanism of electrofreezing. We present the results of a similar study at South Pole (90.0°S), located not, vert, similar1000 km from Vostok, which has been conducted in order to examine the spatial extent of this phenomenon. Both Vostok and South Pole are ideal locations at which to search for such an effect since they are subject to relatively stable weather regimes. We find no observable effect of FDs on the atmosphere above South Pole. We discuss possible reasons for the disagreement between the results of the two studies and conclude that it is due to differences in methodology.

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