Lidar returns from multiply scattering media in multiple-field-of-view and CCD lidars with polarization devices:...

Quite recently, a semi-analytical approach to the sounding of multiply scattering media (clouds, seawaters) using multiple-field-of-view and CCD lidars with polarization devices was developed. The angular distributions of polarized components of the lidar returns from multiply scattering media computed on the basis of this theory using the small-angle approximation are presented and discussed. The semi-analytical nature of the solution makes the computation procedure faster. The obtained data are compared with results provided by the most advanced Monte Carlo algorithms for simulation of modern lidar performance. The good agreement between data provided by the semi-analytical approach and Monte Carlo computations assures one that these approaches can serve as a reliable theoretical base for interpretation and inversion of cloud lidar sounding data obtained with polarized lidars, including polarized multiple-field-of-view and CCD lidars.