Raman Lidar Capability to Measure Tropospheric Properties
Document ID: 141
The Pennsylvania State University, Department of Electrical Engineering and Applied Research Laboratory,University Park, PA, U.S.A.
Abstract
The Lidar Atmospheric Profile Sensor (LAPS) instrument is the fifth in a series of lidar instruments leading to a first operational prototype for obtaining meteorological profiles in the lower atmosphere. It was prepared and tested to determine its capability to provide automated shipboard operation for atmospheric properties under a wide range of meteorological conditions. The instrument measures the water vapor profile based on the vibrational Raman scattering and the temperature profile based on the rotational Raman scattering. Profiles of the Raman signals are obtained each minute with a vertical resolution of 75 meters from the surface to a user selected altitude. The measured 1 minute profiles are integrated for user selected intervals to simultaneously determine the real time atmospheric profiles for specific humidity, temperature, optical extinction and ozone. Daytime measurements of water vapor, extinction and ozone are made using the “solar blind” ultraviolet signals. The instrument includes a safety radar which detects aircraft as they approach and automatically shuts down the beam. The weather sealed instrument has been designed to include features such as real time data display/transfer, environment control, and performance self-tests to control many functions. Tests have proven the qualities of ruggedness, reliability and general performance of the LAPS lidar system.
| Citation: | "Raman Lidar Capability to Measure Tropospheric Properties", Philbrick, C. R., ILRC, Vol. 98p2, European Space Agency (ESA), 1998, pp. 1 - 5 |