Retrieval of aerosol extinction coefficient profiles from Raman lidar data by inversion method

Area of Science:

• Atmospheric Science
• Remote Sensing
• Lidar Technology

Background:

• Accurate retrieval of aerosol extinction coefficient profiles is crucial for atmospheric studies.
• Inelastic Raman lidar signals present challenges due to the inherent differentiation problem in data processing.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a stable and accurate algorithm for retrieving aerosol extinction coefficient profiles from Raman lidar signals.
• To introduce a novel strategy for selecting integration ranges in optical property retrieval.
• To adapt Monte Carlo methods for uncertainty quantification in extinction coefficient retrieval.

Main Methods:

• A projection method combined with iterative regularization and the L-curve method was employed.
• The algorithm was tested on both synthetic and measured lidar signals.
• A new strategy for choosing integration ranges was developed and implemented.
• Monte Carlo procedures were adapted for uncertainty analysis.

Main Results:

• The developed algorithm successfully retrieved aerosol extinction coefficient profiles.
• The proposed integration range strategy proved effective within the optical property retrieval framework.
• The adapted Monte Carlo procedure provided a means to treat uncertainty in extinction coefficient retrieval.

Conclusions:

• The study provides a robust method for deriving aerosol extinction profiles from lidar data.
• The novel integration strategy and uncertainty quantification enhance the reliability of lidar-based atmospheric measurements.