Set of Algorithms and Techniques for Accurate 3D, Single Beam – Single Pointing, Lidar Measurements for Slant Range Visibility, Planetary Boundary Layer Height and Wind Speed Retrieval, Atmospheric Layers Spatial Distribution and Categorization in Real Time

Abstract

In this work, a full set of recently developed algorithms and techniques is presented, for a single beam-single pointing lidar to be able to perform operational and independent accurate 3 Dimensional (3D) measurements, for slant range visibility, wind speed retrieval, atmospheric layers spatial distribution and categorization, as well as Planetary Boundary Layer Height (PBLH) retrieval, in real or Near Real Time (NRT).The idea behind this development was for any single lidar to be able to perform a set of accurately measured products, either mobile or stationary, with or without network connectivity with other sensors for data-information exchange. The products were determined by the needs of lidar remote scientific and commercial community, in order to be even more attractive and valuable to atmospheric scientists, meteorologists, aviation and shipping safety operators, as well as to the Space lidar community.