Turbulence-induced measurement errors in coherent differential absorption lidar ground systems

Area of Science:

• Atmospheric optics
• Remote sensing
• Lidar technology

Background:

• Atmospheric refractive turbulence introduces uncertainties in lidar measurements.
• Heterodyne lidar systems are susceptible to signal fluctuations, particularly along slant paths.
• Accurate atmospheric profiling requires accounting for real-world environmental conditions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the impact of atmospheric refractive turbulence on differential absorption lidar (DIAL) measurements.
• To quantify the uncertainty introduced by beam propagation simulations in heterodyne lidar systems.
• To analyze how coherent return fluctuations affect DIAL accuracy and sensitivity.

Main Methods:

• Simulations of beam propagation through turbulent atmospheric models.
• Analysis of statistical uncertainty in coherent return signals.
• Examination of lidar system performance under realistic, nonuniform atmospheric conditions.

Main Results:

• Atmospheric turbulence significantly increases uncertainty in DIAL measurements.
• Signal fluctuations in ground-based lidar systems reduce measurement accuracy and sensitivity.
• Slant path measurements at large elevation angles are particularly affected.

Conclusions:

• Simulations are crucial for understanding DIAL measurement uncertainties caused by atmospheric turbulence.
• Realistic atmospheric conditions must be considered for accurate DIAL instrument design and application.
• The study highlights the need for advanced techniques to mitigate turbulence effects in lidar remote sensing.