Validation and Comparisons of Suomi NPP OMPS Limb Profiler Ozone Measurements

The Ozone Mapping and Profiler Suite (OMPS) Limb Profiler onboard the Suomi National Polar-Orbiting Partnership satellite (SNPP) makes measurements of limb-scattered solar radiances over Ultraviolet and Visible wavelengths. These measurements are used in retrieval algorithms to create high vertical resolution ozone profiles to help to monitor the evolution of the atmospheric ozone layer. NOAA is in the process of implementing these algorithms to make near-real-time versions of these products. The main objective of this project was to generate estimates of the accuracy and precision of the OMPS Limb products by analysis of matchup comparisons with similar products from the Earth Observing System Microwave Limb Sounder (EOS Aura MLS). The studies investigated the sources of errors; classified them with respect to height, geographic location, and atmospheric and observation conditions; and worked with the algorithm developers to attempt to develop corrections and adjustments for them. Collocation and daily average comparisons were made and statistics were gathered on both a daily basis and on long-term scales encompassing the entire OMPS data record.  These measurements were done in preparation for the launch of the Stratospheric Aerosol and Gas Experiment III on the International Space Station (SAGE III ISS), which is planned to launch in November of 2016. Once launched, and after data begins to be acquired, the OMPS and MLS comparisons will be used to validate SAGE III ozone measurements.