Atmosphere of Earth the border between the atmosphere and outer space. Atmospheric effects become noticeable during atmospheric reentry of spacecraft at an altitude of around . Several layers can be distinguished in the atmosphere, based on characteristics such as temperature and composition. The study of Earth's atmosphere and its processes is called atmospheric science (aerology). Early pioneers in the field include Léon Teisserenc de Bort and Richard Assmann. The three major constituents of Earth's atmosphere are nitrogen, oxygen, and argon. Water vapor accounts for roughly 0.25% of the atmosphere by mass. The concentration of water vapor (a greenhouse gas) varies significantly from around
Gas turbine gas-turbine powered ship was the U.S. Coast Guard's , a cutter commissioned in 1961 that was powered by two turbines utilizing controllable-pitch propellers. The larger High Endurance Cutters, was the first class of larger cutters to utilize gas turbines, the first of which () was commissioned in 1967. Since then, they have powered the U.S. Navy's s, and s, and guided missile cruisers. , a modified , is to be the Navy's first amphibious assault ship powered by gas turbines. The marine gas turbine operates in a more corrosive atmosphere due to the presence of sea salt in air and