Satellite occultation experiments play an important role in enhancing our understanding of complex atmospheric processes that impact the ozone layer and influence climate. Satellite instruments using this technique measure the radiance of the sun, moon, or stars through the atmosphere as the spacecraft rises or descends from behind the earth. These measurements are made at different spectral wavelengths to provide information on the composition of the atmosphere.

Over the past 25 years, observations from satellite occultation missions have led to major discoveries on the impact of volcanic eruptions on climate, the distribution of polar stratospheric clouds, ozone depletion, and transport processes. The measurements have also been key to monitoring long-term changes in ozone concentration over the globe and tracking the abundance of trace gases responsible for its variation.

The Solar Occultation Satellite Science Team (SOSST) brings together members from these missions and other science investigators to share information on algorithm retrievals, data sets, analysis techniques, and scientific findings. Sponsored by NASA's Earth Science Enterprise, SOSST links other observational and modeling activities within the Enterprise and throughout the international community.