Cloud thermodynamic phase detection with a 3-channel shortwave infrared polarimeter

Martin Jan Tauc, Carol L. Baumbauer, Benjamin Moon, Andrew M. Abel, David W. Riesland, Laura M. Eshelman, Wataru Nakagawa, Joseph A. Shaw

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingConference contributionpeer-review

6 Scopus citations

Abstract

Knowing the thermodynamic phase of a cloud-whether it is composed of spherical water droplets or polyhedral ice crystals-is critical in remote sensing applications and in climate studies. We recently showed that we can determine cloud phase with visible-wavelength sky polarimetry, and in this presentation we extend that method to shortwave infrared wavelength bands near 1.6 microns. We describe the instrument, a passive, three-channel polarimeter with spectral bands at 1550 nm, 1640 nm, and 1700 nm with approximate width of 40 nm and how we are using it in experiments to discriminate between liquid-water and ice clouds. This portable polarimeter measures scattered sunlight using polarizers orientated at 0°, 45‡, and 90° with respect to the solar vertical scattering plane. It has a 4.9° field-of-view and a motorized, computer-controlled pan-And-Tilt mount that controls the positioning of the polarimeter so that it can measure any point in the sky.

Original languageEnglish
Title of host publicationPolarization
Subtitle of host publicationMeasurement, Analysis, and Remote Sensing XIII
EditorsDennis H. Goldstein, David B. Chenault
ISBN (Electronic)9781510618213
DOIs
StatePublished - 2018
EventPolarization: Measurement, Analysis, and Remote Sensing XIII 2018 - Orlando, United States
Duration: 16 Apr 201817 Apr 2018

Publication series

NameProceedings of SPIE - The International Society for Optical Engineering
Volume10655
ISSN (Print)0277-786X
ISSN (Electronic)1996-756X

Conference

ConferencePolarization: Measurement, Analysis, and Remote Sensing XIII 2018
Country/TerritoryUnited States
CityOrlando
Period16/04/1817/04/18

Keywords

  • Atmospheric radiation
  • Cloud thermodynamic phase
  • Polarimetry

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