A new fully automated FTIR system for total column measurements of greenhouse gases

摘要

This article introduces a new fully automatedFTIR system that is part of the Total Carbon Column Observing Network(TCCON). It will provide continuousground-based measurements of column-averaged volume mixing ratio forCO₂, CH₄ and several other greenhouse gases in the tropics.Housed in a 20-foot shipping container it was developed as a transportablesystem that could be deployed almost anywhere in the world. We describe theautomation concept which relies on three autonomous subsystems and theirinteraction. Crucial components like a sturdy and reliable solar tracker domeare described in detail. The automation software employs a new approachrelying on multiple processes, database logging and web-based remote control.First results of total column measurements at Jena, Germany show that theinstrument works well and can provide parts of the diurnal as well asseasonal cycle for CO₂. Instrument line shape measurements with anHCl cell suggest that the instrument stays well-aligned over severalmonths.After a short test campaign for side by side intercomaprison with an existingTCCON instrument in Australia, the system will be transported to its finaldestination Ascension Island.