CRUX-1.0: An automatic GHG and Ozone observation system for inland Antarctica Plateau

Abstract. Antarctic inland regions, as critical hubs for global climate change monitoring, suffer from a lack of reliable long-term greenhouse gas (GHG) observation systems due to extreme low temperatures, strong winds, and limited logistical/energy support. To address this gap, the CRUX-1.0 automatic observation system was developed and deployed at Taishan Station (inland Antarctic Plateau) during the 39th and 40th CHINARE expeditions, targeting simultaneous monitoring of CO2 and surface ozone (O3). Integrating four core subsystems – analysis, calibration, temperature control, and data communication – the system is specifically engineered for harsh polar environments with low power consumption (<350 W) and autonomous operation capability. The operational analysis based on A one month continuous field experiment showed its stable performance: CO2 measurements achieved a coefficient of variation (CV) <6 % (nearing 0 % post-calibration), while O3 measurements maintained a CV <5.6 %. The average concentrations (CO2: 420.3 ± 1.5 ppm; O3: 20.1 ± 0.8 ppb) closely aligned with regional background levels and South Pole Station data, confirming high reliability. With its robust adaptability, CRUX-1.0 could be extended to other polar or high-altitude regions, further enhancing the global atmospheric monitoring network's coverage and capability.