November 6, 2014 - Longueuil, Quebec - Canadian Space Agency
Thanks to Canada's SCISAT, an international team of scientists has discovered a recent and unexpected increase in stratospheric hydrogen chloride (HCl) in the Northern Hemisphere.
Information from SCISAT along with other satellite data and ground-based measurements showed the scientific team that the increase in stratospheric HCl is due to a slowdown in the atmospheric circulation of the Northern Hemisphere. This discovery could impact how scientists will analyze the evolution of the stratospheric ozone layer going forward.
Since 1989, the implementation of the UN's Montreal Protocol has led to a reduction in chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) around the globe. These CFCs are responsible for the depletion of the ozone layer that protects us from ultraviolet radiation. CFCs break-up in the stratosphere and release chlorine atoms that then form HCl. Under certain conditions, HCl can be transformed into other chlorine-containing molecules that destroy ozone.
Media Relations
Canadian Space Agency
Telephone: 450-926-4370
E-mail: media@asc-csa.gc.ca
Website: www.asc-csa.gc.ca
Twitter: @csa_asc
Follow us on Social Media!
