ESRL Global Monitoring Laboratory - Mauna Loa Observatory

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):

SUNY logo State University of New York (SUNY)
MSRC logo State University of New York (SUNY) / Marine Sciences Research Center (MSRC)

What does this program measure?

This project measures ¹⁴CO, a naturally occurring radioactive tracer, in units of molecules/cm³. It also measures ¹³CO, C¹⁸O. Also noted are local meteorological conditions during sampling (wind speed, direction, temperature, precipitation).

How does this program work?

We collect large, whole air samples, extract the air in the laboratory, isolate the gas, and measure it using accelerator mass spectrometry. Samples are collected weekly, during down slope conditions (around 4am local time). Local meteorological conditions during sampling are noted (wind speed, direction, temperature, precipitation). The system is automated and the cylinder is filled to approximately 800 psi.

MLO observers note the sample pressure, close the sample cylinder, ship the cylinder to Stony Brook, and then attach a new sample cylinder to the sampling system and replace the drying cartridge. The night prior to collection, the valve to the sample cylinder is opened. Instrumentation consists of sample cylinder and National Weather Service Meteorology instruments.

Why is this research important?

We use ¹⁴CO as a tracer of OH (hydroxyl) concentration, which is important for its reactivity with many other trace gases. By doing so, we can determine the lifetime of those trace gases, and whether or not the lifetime is changing.

Are there any trends in the data?

To be determined.

How does this program fit into the big picture?

What is it's role in global climate change?

OH radical (hydroxyl) is the most reactive oxidant in the atmosphere. Any variation in OH abundance will lead to changes in the abundances of many trace gas species in the atmosphere, including methane (CH4), carbon monoxide (CO), and volatile organic compounds.

Comments and References

DISCLAIMER:

This material is based upon work supported by the National Science Foundation. Any opinions, findings, and conclusions or recommendations expressed in this material are the opinions of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views of the National Science Foundation.