Forumulation of a suite of retrieval algorithms for the retrieval of cirrus microphysical properties using radar, lidar and radiometer observations applicable to satellite, airborne and ground-based platforms

The planned formation flight of CloudSat, CALIPSO, and Aqua will provide long-term global observations and numerous opportunities for the application of cloud property retrieval algorithms that combine measurements from these platforms. Since the instruments on these platforms provide unique quantitative information about the cloud environment, a suite of cirrus retrieval algorithms based on different combinations of the passive and active measurements is being developed to produce cloud properties. The retrievals are formulated in an estimation theory framework including a priori information. This formulation provides a valuable quantitative measures of uncertainty in the retrieved quantities and the relative influence of the measurements and a priori data. The algorithms will facilitate the analysis of the extensive high-cloud dataset obtained from the satellite data, and explore high-cloud net radiative forcing affected by the cloud properties. We will discuss these algorithms, show results from ground based data and from data collected by the ER2 during the Crystal FACE campaign.