Special Structures of Sodium Layer Observed in the Daytime Over Beijing, China

Abstract

In this paper the observation of sodium (Na) layer in mesosphere and lower thermosphere (MLT) region over complete diurnal cycles based on broadband Na lidar at Yanqing Station, Beijing, China (40.5°N,116°E ) was reported. Faraday filters with dual-channel design were used in the lidar receiving unit to suppress the strong background light in the daytime, which allow observation of Na layer with an acceptable signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) under sunlit condition. Several special structures of Na layer observed in the daytime was discussed. The simultaneous continuous observation of zonal wind by meteor radar was presented for comparison. These observation results can provide direct and reliable supports for the study of mesopause dynamics and solar effect on Na layer.