Vol. 38, issue 08, article # 10

Abstract:

The paper presents a database of backscattered light matrices for all typical shapes of ice crystals in cirrus clouds, including an aggregate of eight hexagonal columns, which is often used in research. The case of random orientation of a particle in space is considered. A unique feature of this database, in contrast to its analogues, is that it presents solutions for all typical convex crystals of cirrus clouds, as well as particles of a typical non-convex shape – an aggregate. The solution is derived for the particle size range from 10 to 1000 mm for three most commonly used lidar wavelengths: 0.355, 0.532, and 1.064 mm. This database is extremely important for the development of algorithms for interpreting laser polarization sounding data from cirrus clouds using both ground-based and space-based lidars. The database is available in the public domain in a simple text format to facilitate its use by a wide range of scientists.

Keywords:

database, backscattering matrix, physical optics method, atmospheric ice crystals, aggregate, cirrus clouds, random orientation

Figures:

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