Structure and composition of terrestrial atmospheres. Fundamental aspects of electromagnetic radiation. Absorption and emission by atmospheric gases. Optical extinction of particles. Roles of atmospheric species in Earth's radiative energy balance. Perturbation of climate due to natural and antropogenic causes. Satellite observations of climate system.

Dynamical concepts needed to develop a qualitative understanding of the large-scale structure of the atmospheric circulation. The control of the angular momentum budget by Rossby wave fluxes. Theories for the Hadley circulation in the tropics and the "macro-turbulence" of midlatitudes. Linear theories for deviations from zonal symmetry of the mean flow.

Each week, students read one research paper and discuss with faculty. The instructor provides additional information such as the historical context, motivation of research, and impact on the field. The papers selected differ from year to year, with a semester's papers organized around either: a collection of "great papers" that are seminal in the field of AOS; a collection of recent high impact papers; and papers discussing a specific topic. The detailed analysis of the research papers also helps students familiarize with the process of distilling essential results for publication.