Direct observations of PMC local time variations by Aura OMI

►The Aura OMI instrument makes unique measurements of polar mesospheric clouds (PMCs). ►OMI can directly observe PMC local time variations over a 12-14 h period. ►Ice phase function effects with scattering angle must be considered in this analysis. ►Northern Hemisphere albedo and occurrence frequency values peak at 8-10 h local time. ►Southern Hemisphere albedo and frequency values reach a minimum at 18-20 h LT.