Aviation Glossary - Stratosphere

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Stratosphere

The upper part of the Earth’s atmosphere. The stratosphere extends upward from the tropopause, which is approximately 36,000 feet above the surface of the Earth, to approximately 85,000 feet. The temperature of the air in the stratosphere remains constant at -56.5 °C (-69.7 °F).

source: FAA Aviation Maintenance Technician Powerplant Handbook (FAA-H-8083-32)

The atmospheric layer above the tropopause, average altitude of base and top, 7 and 22 miles respectively; characterized by a slight average increase of temperature from base to top and is very stable; also characterized by low moisture content and absence of clouds.

source: FAA Aviation Weather for Pilots (AC 00-6A)

The region of the atmosphere extending from the top of the troposphere to the base of the mesosphere, an important area for monitoring stratospheric ozone.

source: NOAA National Weather Service Glossary

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