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Atmospheric remote sensing
In an effort to contribute to a better understanding of global climate change and global warming, lasers scientists are involved in atmospheric remote sensing via the powerful technique of lidar (light detection and ranging).
Advancements in both laser and detector technology, as well as improvements in data collection and analysis techniques have made lidar a reliable tool for atmospheric remote sensing.
The CSIR’s mobile lidar system comprises a laser transmitter, optical receiver and a data acquisition unit. The system is primarily designed for atmospheric remote sensing contributing to a better understanding of global climate change and global warming. The complete lidar system is custom-fitted into a van using a shock absorber frame. Hydraulic stabiliser feet have been added to the vehicle suspension to ensure stability during measurements. While the system was tested for atmospheric backscatter measurements, future plans include 3D measurements using an XY scanner, a two-channel lidar system, water vapour measurements and possibly also for measuring pollutants using differential absorption lidar (DIAL).
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