Extended Abstract (116K)6.4
End-to-end testbed for rapid analysis of laser remote sensing data and application to flight data in preparation for ASCENDS
T. Scott Zaccheo, AER, Inc., Lexington, MA; and H. E. Snell, J. Dobler, M. E. Dobbs, E. V. Browell, and B. Moore
This work describes the design and use of an extensible testbed developed to provide end-to-end simulation and analysis of laser-based remote sensing systems. This testbed provides a graphical user interface (GUI) based set of tools for simulating sensor performance, and a modular framework that facilitates the comparison of measured data from prototype/operational instruments with modeled results. This framework provides standardized interfaces/interface approaches for combining community line-by-line radiative transfer (RT) models with atmospheric state information obtained from historical databases and in situ measurements. In the examples presented in this work, the line-by-line radiative transfer model LBLRTM was integrated with profiles obtained from historical databases and in situ measurements. Using a comprehensive RT modeling approach not only provides information about the primary absorption feature, but also the impact of other trace gases on the measurements.
Our presentation focuses on the utility of the testbed in the analysis of aircraft flight data acquired using a fiber laser based instrument designed and developed by ITT to measure carbon dioxide (CO2) column amounts. Surface/atmospheric temperature, moisture and pressure information was obtained from rawin/radiosonde launched in conjunction with the flight campaigns or as part of national/international networks. In addition, CO2 profile data were obtained from coincident in situ measurements collected by NASA Langley Research Center (LARC). Using this data we present measured differential optical depths for several configurations of the instrument and the corresponding model results. We also illustrate how our analysis tools allow for the estimation of errors due to uncertainties in atmospheric state and an assessment of a first order correction designed to minimize the differences between measurements and modeled results due to a complex set of terms, such as instrument calibration biases and uncertainties in spectral knowledge.
Session 6, Emerging lidar methods in addressing atmospheric issues
Wednesday, 14 January 2009, 8:30 AM-10:00 AM, Room 122A
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