Nd:YAG and Ruby Based Lidar Systems for Remote Sensing of Atmospheric Aerosols

Abstract

The investigation of atmospheric aerosols and their properties have become an increasingly active research area in recent years. This activity is a result of the realization of the importance of aerosols in such diverse areas as environment, climate, infrared backscattering, and cloud formation. In support of this research, lidar has proven itself to be a very valuable and versatile remote sensing technique. NASA-Langley has been involved with the development and application of lidar for atmospheric aerosol measurements since 1964. Over the years several lidars have been developed in the Aerosol Research Branch of Langley, leading to the current operational systems which include the ground based 48-Inch Mobile Lidar and a 14-inch airborne system. These lidar systems have been used primarily for stratospheric measurements, although recently, there has been increased activity in the tropo-spheric region. An 8-inch downlooking airborne lidar has also been developed, and is currently being used to support these measurements.