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Remote Sensing

The Earth’s atmosphere is a complex system of dynamic turbulent processes and changing chemical composition. Accurate data about the atmosphere is of vital importance for research into properties such as boundary layer evolution, aerosols, pollution development, clouds, and more.

Investigating the Atmosphere at the Speed of Light

Light Detection and Ranging (Lidar) uses Laser pulses transmitted into the atmosphere. A proportion of the energy is refl ected back by molecules and aerosols to the receiving telescope, which collects the radiation and focuses it onto a sensitive detector.The time delay between the transmitted pulse and any part of the return signal is equivalent to distance (range). This ability to derive profi les of atmospheric properties with excellent temporal and spatial resolution is the key advantage of the Lidar technique. Kipp & Zonen exclusively represents Lidar systems designed and manufacturedby Raymetrics S.A. of Greece, which are the result of years of research and co-operation within international campaigns. They are compact, portable, turn- key, cost-eff ective and designed for continuous outdoor operation. Traditional measurements are made ‘in situ’ using instruments on towers, attached to balloons or in aircraft. Remote sensing instruments do not require contact with the medium being measured and are normally ground or satellite based. Kipp & Zonen supplies a range of products using optical and microwave remote sensing technologies.