Analyzing Trace Gases Spatial and Temporal Distributions in the Mid-Atlantic Region using the PANDORA Network

The NASA Pandora instrument utilizes spectroscopy to analyze ultraviolet (UV) and visible wavelengths of light, providing insights into atmospheric composition. Focused on tropospheric columns, particularly water vapor, SO2, O3, NO2, and HCHO, the Pandora enhances surface monitoring networks to understand emissions, chemistry, and meteorology dynamics in key locations. This study presents an analysis of Pandora data from three sites in Maryland and D.C. – HUBC, NASA Goddard (GFSC) in Maryland, and McMillan station in Washington, DC. The McMillan station is located in an urban setting, and GFSC and HUBC are located in a suburban, suburban/rural landscape, respectively.

Through time-series plots, seasonal patterns in water vapor and SO2 concentrations are examined. Results reveal distinct seasonal patterns, with water vapor peaking in summer and SO2 showing winter maxima. Differences between urban and suburban locations in SO2 levels are noted, with the urban site showing higher offsets. Despite the proximity of HUBC and GSFC, significant differences are observed, particularly with "less abundant" gases like SO2, underscoring the need for further analysis.

Keywords: NASA Pandora, Trace Gases, Seasonal Patterns, Spatial Variation, Temporal Variation