Title:
The influence of the Polar Vortex on Artic Winter Clouds and Aerosol Interactions
Agreement Number:
25HAWCVORT
Agreement Value:
$45,000.00
Agreement Date:
Jan 12, 2026 - Sep 29, 2028
Description:
This project explores how the polar vortex—the large, swirling wind pattern in the Arctic—affects winter clouds and their interactions with tiny airborne particles called aerosols. Focusing on the area around Inuvik in the Northwest Territories, we will combine computer simulations with data collected from aircraft, satellites, and computer simulations of weather and concomitant weather records. The goal is to better understand how interactions, coupling and changes in the polar vortex influence cloud formation, storm patterns, and the movement of aerosols in the Arctic. And vice versa. Since these clouds play a crucial role in trapping heat during the long polar night, learning more about them will help improve climate predictions for the Arctic and beyond. The project will also test how different amounts of aerosols affect clouds, providing new insights into how Arctic weather and climate may change in the future.
Organization:
Canadian Space Agency
Expected Results:
The Research component of the program provides financial support to organizations to conduct space related research and development in priority areas. It will support targeted knowledge development and innovation to sustain and enhance the Canadian capacity to use space to address national needs and priorities in the future.
Location:
Halifax, Nova Scotia, CA B3H 4R2
Reference Number:
003-2025-2026-Q4-00070
Report Type:
Grants and Contributions
Recipient's Legal Name:
Dalhousie University
Program:
Class Grant and Contribution Program to Support Research, Awareness and Learning in Space Science and Technology
Program Purpose:
This program supports knowledge development and innovation in the CSA's priority areas while increasing the awareness and participation of Canadians in space-related disciplines and activities.
The Research Component aims to support the development of science and technology; foster the continual development of a critical mass of researchers and highly qualified people in Canada; and support information gathering and space-related studies and research pertaining to Canadian Space Agency priorities.