Scattering and polarization measurements using the PL/OPA low altitude lidar

This report describes the background theory, experimental techniques, and results of research relating to lidar polarization, scattering, and absorption effects using the GL/OP low altitude lidar system. The work, which is aimed at improving the understanding of lidar as a diagnostic tool for studying the atmosphere, has concentrated on understanding multiple scattering and scattering from irregularly shaped particles, and deducing the extinction coefficient from lidar data. We present results of polarization measurements in snow, Mie scattering calculations, extinction coefficient calculations and preliminary modeling of multiple scattering effects as applied to lidar experiments.