A method to retrieve super-thin cloud optical depth over ocean background with polarized sunlight
In this work, an algorithm that uses the polarization angle of the backscattered solar radiation to detect clouds with optical depth (OD) < ~ 0.3 is further developed. We find that at viewing angles within ± ∼ 8° around the backscattering direction, the <i>p</i>-polarized inte...
| Main Authors: | , , , , |
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| Format: | Article |
| Language: | English |
| Published: |
Copernicus Publications
2015-10-01
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| Series: | Atmospheric Chemistry and Physics |
| Online Access: | http://www.atmos-chem-phys.net/15/11909/2015/acp-15-11909-2015.pdf |
| Summary: | In this work, an algorithm that uses the polarization angle of the
backscattered solar radiation to detect clouds with optical depth (OD)
< ~ 0.3 is further developed. We find that at viewing
angles within ± ∼ 8° around the backscattering
direction, the <i>p</i>-polarized intensity that is parallel to the meridian plane
of reflected light from the surface is sensitive to, and nearly linearly related
to, the optical depth of super-thin clouds. Moreover, our sensitivity study
suggests that the <i>p</i>-polarized intensity at these viewing angles is not
sensitive to the ocean surface conditions. Using this property of
<i>p</i>-polarized intensity, super-thin clouds' optical depth can be retrieved. |
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| ISSN: | 1680-7316 1680-7324 |