Extinction Measurements in the Lower Atmosphere with CO2-Lidar

With the intention to develop a model for IR-extinction in slant paths in the lower atmosphere, we perform measurements with a CO2-lidar. We intend to measure profiles of the aerosol extinction coefficient and to relate the parameters of such profiles to weather parameters and the irradiation, which influences the boundary layer dynamics. Our primary application is range prediction for IR-imaging systems but the results may also be useful for radiation balance studies in weather modelling. Earlier measurements with a horizontal transmissometer have provided data for a model which relates aerosol extinction in the 0.5 - 15 μm range to weather parameters. Ref. Nilsson (1986). We hope to be able to extend the model to slant paths by use of lidar data.