Initial results from a volume scanning three wavelengthpolarization lidar

摘要

Clouds and aerosols play an important role in the radiativenprocesses affecting the Earth's climate and the thermodynamic propertiesnof the atmosphere. Therefore, it is crucial to gain greater insight intonthe structure and composition of clouds and aerosols. One approach tonachieving this consists of employing several different remote sensingnsystems operating at multiple wavelengths. At Penn State, anninterdisciplinary group of researchers following this approach hasndeveloped a new research tool called WAVE-LARS (Water Aerosol VapornExperiment-Lidar And Radar Sounder). This instrument includes a volumenscanning 94 GHz radar, a volume scattering multi-wavelength lidar, and anvertically pointing Rayleigh/Raman lidar. The 94 GHz radar was based onna previous radar constructed at Penn State, augment ed with new volumenscanning and polarization capabilities. This system provides verticalnprofiles of atmospheric water vapor and temperature. The theory, design,nand initial results from the volume scanning lidar is discussed