Cirrus cloud detection by micro pulse lidar: algorithm development and testing

A. E. Galbraith, J. A. Reagan, J. D. Spinhirne

Research output: Contribution to conferencePaperpeer-review

1 Scopus citations

Abstract

Micro pulse lidar (MPL) recently has been developed for profiling cloud and aerosol structure over long time periods. MPL offers advantages over previous lidars by providing more horizontal data due to a high pulse repetition rate and long data collection times. The lidar operates at low energy levels (approx.1 μJ), requiring a more statistical approach for obtaining relevant cloud properties such as cloud base height. Due to the high volume of time versus height backscatter data, an automated algorithm is required. This paper presents an automated algorithm for cirrus cloud detection and develops a simulated cloud model used to test the algorithm. The increased amount of information along the time axis allows one to take advantage of horizontal correlations in the data. Local running standard deviations are taken both vertically and horizontally to determine threshold criteria for cloud boundaries. Image processing techniques are incorporated in the algorithm developed to improve confidence levels in detected cloud boundaries.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages1244-1246
Number of pages3
StatePublished - 1996
EventProceedings of the 1996 International Geoscience and Remote Sensing Symposium, IGARSS'96. Part 1 (of 4) - Lincoln, NE, USA
Duration: May 28 1996May 31 1996

Other

OtherProceedings of the 1996 International Geoscience and Remote Sensing Symposium, IGARSS'96. Part 1 (of 4)
CityLincoln, NE, USA
Period5/28/965/31/96

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Computer Science Applications
  • Earth and Planetary Sciences(all)

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