The upper atmosphere refers to the layer or layers of Earth's atmosphere that are located above a certain altitude. This term is often used interchangeably with the term "stratosphere," which typically refers to the layer between 10 and 50 kilometers (6-31 miles) above sea level, although it can vary depending on location and weather conditions. The upper atmosphere includes several layers such as the mesosphere, thermosphere, and exosphere, each with their own unique characteristics and properties. It is in these higher altitudes that we find the ozone layer, which plays a crucial role in protecting life on Earth from harmful ultraviolet radiation. The upper atmosphere also experiences significant changes due to human activities such as aviation and space exploration, making it an important area of study for scientists researching climate change and atmospheric conditions.