Probing the Atmosphere with Research Aircraft - European Aircraft Campaings

Abstract

- Aircraft are used to investigate the atmosphere and the ground by visual observations and by measurements with instruments on board the aircraft. They allow for: Targeted measurement of atmospheric properties above ground with in-situ instruments and with airborne remote sensing instruments along a given flight path; Measurements at high temporal/spatial resolution; Data for process studies; Data for validation of models; Test and validation of remote sensing; Measurements of otherwise not measurable properties; Simultaneous measurements of many parameters. This lecture is based on experiences gained within several European research projects with research aircraft, such as POLINAT, EULINOX, INCA, and TROCCINOX. Instead The paper describes the European research aircraft fleet and the methodological aspect of airborne measurements.