|
Cloud Properties Over the Arctic During SHEBA/FIRE ACE From ATSR-2 and AVHRR Data |
NASA LaRC, NASA LaRC, AS&M, Inc., AS&M, Inc.
p.minnis@larc.nasa.gov
Cloud optical depth and microphysical properties are critical for modeling clouds and their radiative effects in the Arctic. The cold, bright background of the Arctic surface reduces the accuracy of cloud properties derived using standard visible and infrared techniques. Typically, such approaches produce overestimates of optical depth. To reduce the uncertainties in the derived cloud properties, other infrared and near-infrared channels are needed to in the retrievals of cloud phase, optical depth, and effective particle size. This paper explores the use of combined 0.65, 1.6, 3.7, 11, and 12 µm data from the Along Track Scanning Radiometer (ATSR-2) and the Advanced Very High Resolution Radiometer (AVHRR) taken over the Arctic during FIRE ACE and SHEBA. The data are analyzed on a grid covering the ARM North Slope of Alaska site and the SHEBA ship. The results are compared to surface retrievals and aircraft in situ data. The techniques are tested for possible application to the Clouds and the Earth's Radiant Energy System (CERES) cloud analysis system.
For more information: http://www-pm.larc.nasa.gov/.
