The Aerosol Component of the ACCP Designated Observable Study

The 2017 Earth Science Decadal Survey (DS) recommended science and applications priorities to be pursued by NASA during the 2017-2027 timeframe. Aerosols (A) and clouds, convection, and precipitation (CCP) were identified as essential "designated" observables requiring additional capabilities beyond those planned in the current Program of Record. The DS recommended NASA develop a medium-to-large mission to address these observables, which would represent foundational elements of the future observing system. In fall 2018, NASA initiated a 3-year study of a combined ACCP observing system, including identification of science goals and objectives, desired geophysical variables, and observing system capabilities. The goal of the study is not to define a single mission concept but to explore a range of potential concepts and recommend several concepts with different levels of capability. The study is currently exploring instrument and orbit options that would provide desired observational capabilities, within the context of both satellite and sub-orbital components of the planned international Earth observation program. This talk will present a summary of currently defined ACCP science objectives and approaches envisioned, with the goal of informing and soliciting comment and feedback from the aerosol community.