// ORBITAL LOGISTICS AND PROPULSION TERM
Atmosphere
A layer of gases surrounding a planet or other celestial body, held in place by gravity. It can protect the surface and influence climate.
TECHNICAL DEFINITION
An atmosphere is a layer of gases enveloping a planet or other celestial body, retained by gravity, which can influence surface temperature, weather patterns, and protect against radiation, with compositions varying significantly across solar system bodies.
BACKGROUND
Timothy Cole Gallaudet is an American oceanographer and retired Rear Admiral in the United States Navy. Gallaudet worked for the U.S. Department of Commerce as the Acting Under Secretary of Commerce for Oceans and Atmosphere and Acting Administrator of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). As of 2024 he is the CEO of Ocean STL Consulting, LLC., and hosts The American Blue Economy Podcast.
READ MORE ON WIKIPEDIASYNONYMS & ALIASES
- Air
- gas envelope
- exosphere
- troposphere
USAGE NOTE
Understanding planetary atmospheres is crucial for assessing habitability, climate change, and entry/descent/landing operations.