Three-Dimensional Solitary Vortex Structures in the Upper Atmosphere

A new equation describing the nonlinear dynamics of three-dimensional Rossby type solitary structures in the Earth's upper atmosphere is derived. A solution of this equation in the form of an axially symmetric cylindrical monopole (anti-cyclone) vortex of finite height is found. It is shown that the horizontal dimensions of the vortex are larger than, or of the same order as, the Rossby radius, while the vertical scale is comparable to the reduced height of the atmosphere. The vortex can propagate with a constant velocity both eastwards and westwards. It is anti-symmetric in the vertical direction. In addition, it is found that the nonlinear equation has also a solution in the form of a closed packed array of non-overlapping monopole vortices with alternating cyclone and anti-cyclone structures. The results of our theory might be relevant to the observations of large amplitude wave motions in the ionospheric D-layer. They can also be of use for laboratory experiments with rotating fluids.