Observation of the vertical structure of the PBL from space: Inaccessible or feasible?
Abstract
The observation of the vertical structure of the PBL from space is key for the understanding and prediction of earth system processes such as convection initiation and the evolution of extreme events. Current ground-based networks are sparse and do not provide the coverage and the variables to deliver sufficient information. The need of these observations is amplified by the increase of the likelihood and strength of extreme precipitation events and droughts due to climate change.
In order to close this gap, the following observations are needed with high spatial resolution and coverage in the lower troposphere: Vertical profiles of thermodynamics (moisture and temperature) Profiles of horizontal wind and vertical velocity Reliable estimates of bias and noise errors Fast data processing and error propagation for data assimilation with short latency The current state of spaceborne observations of the PBL structure is discussed. This includes active remote sensing systems such as the GNSS, CALIPSO, and ADM as well as the series of passive remote sensing systems such as IASI, AIRS, and ATMS. Unfortunately, it turns out that all current instrument do neither provide the accuracy and the variables nor sufficient vertical and horizontal resolutions for PBL studies. Passive and active remote sensing methodologies are discussed whether these have the potential to advance the current global observation system. This analysis is based on the performance of ground-based and airborne observations, the development of new technologies and a possible upscaling of performance, e.g., by detector sensitivities and transmitter power in the case of active remote sensing. It turns our that mainly lidar systems can reach the required vertical resolution for spaceborne temperature and water vapor profiling from the surface to the lower troposphere. A proposed mission called ATLAS (Atmospheric Thermodynamic Lidar in Space) is presented. The required laser and received technologies are discussed. The required technological advances are substantial, however, if this is the only option, the required developments should be initiated. In the future, corresponding spaceborne measurements should be realized and complemented by the extension of ground-based networks in order to take full advantage of an active-passive sensor synergy.- Publication:
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AGU Fall Meeting Abstracts
- Pub Date:
- December 2019
- Bibcode:
- 2019AGUFM.A14G..01W
- Keywords:
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- 3307 Boundary layer processes;
- ATMOSPHERIC PROCESSES;
- 3360 Remote sensing;
- ATMOSPHERIC PROCESSES