Bremen 2017 – scientific programme

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UP: Fachverband Umweltphysik

UP 5: Postersession

UP 5.1: Poster

Tuesday, March 14, 2017, 16:40–18:10, GW2 B3010

Evaluating the potential for improved vertical sensitivity of MAX-DOAS measurements — •Andreas Richter, Tim Bösch, Enno Peters, Folkard Wittrock, and John P. Burrows — Institut für Umweltphysik, Universität Bremen, Bremen, Germany

Ground-based Multi-Axis DOAS (MAX-DOAS) measurements can be used to derive vertical profiles of trace gases and aerosols in the lower troposphere. Together with the integrated tropospheric columns, these profiles are interesting information for comparison with in-situ measurements and atmospheric models.

One limitation of this technique is the rapid loss of sensitivity with altitude which results from the measurement principle providing the highest sensitivity close to the altitude of the instrument. Extending the profile sensitivity to higher altitudes would increase the applicability of MAX-DOAS measurements, in particular for observations of long-range transport events.

In this study, several possible approaches to extend the vertical profiles are investigated using the radiative transfer model SCIATRAN. Tests include the use of several wavelengths, combination of different azimuthal directions, application of a fixed background spectrum and exploitation of polarised measurements. First results indicate that there is some additional profile information in such measurements but that the effect for practical applications is limited.