Cloud Optical Depth Research:

Week 2 Updates

Presenter: Shrinidhi Nadgouda

Mentors: Dr. Joe Shaw & Erica Venkatesulu

Overview

• Reading and learning
• Running MAML, looking through MAML data files
• Looking for papers on optical depth retrieval algorithms
• Attended first ORSL group meeting

Source: http://hyperphysics.phy-astr.gsu.edu/hbase/phyopt/polclas.html

• Big Objective
• Cloud thermodynamic phase (CTP) imaging, all sky imagers
• Why does this matter?
• Small Objective (my project!)
• Create an algorithm to calculate cloud optical depth

• LIDAR (Light Detection and Ranging) and MAML (Multiple Application Montana LIDAR)

Source: https://clrc2022.montanaphotonics.org/wp-content/uploads/Atmospheric-Lidar-

4-Lidar-Transmitters-Receivers-and-Data-Systems_2-slides-per-page.pdf

Source: [6]

equation 5.14 from [1]

equation 2.4 and 2.6, respectively, from [1]

What is optical depth? and the Lidar Equation

References

[1] V. A. Kovalev, & W. E. Eichinger, Elastic Lidar: Theory, Practice, and Analysis Methods. Hoboken, NJ, USA: John Wiley & Sons, Inc. 2004.

[2] E. Hecht, Optics (Fifth Edition). USA: Pearson Education. 2017.

[3] N. L. Seldomridge, J. A. Shaw, K. S. Repasky, “Dual-polarization lidar using a liquid crystal variable retarder,” Optical Engineering, vol. 45(10), 106202, October, 2006.

[4] K. Sassen, “The Polarization Lidar Technique for Cloud Research: A Review and Current Assessment,” Bulletin of the American Meteorological Society , vol. 72, no. 12, December, 1991.

[5] C. Mitrescu & G. L. Stephens, “A New Method for Determining Cloud Transmittance and Optical Depth Using the ARM Micropulsed Lidar,” Journal of Atmospheric and Oceanic Technology, vol. 19, July, 2002.

[6] L. H. Spangler, J. A. Shaw, K. S. Repasky, J. L. Carlsten,& D. Dickensheets, “Advanced Opto-Electronics (LIDAR and Microsensor Development),” Montana State University, Bozeman, Montana, USA, Final Report, 30 September 2005.