Generation of a CALIPSO climatology of near-surface boundary layer aerosols for solar energy applications

Kurzfassung

Aerosols are highly variable in time and space. Along with water vapour they are the biggest contributors to extinction of radiation at Earth´s surface. As a consequence they affect the energy yield in CSP (Concentrated Solar Power) plants. This study aims to describe the presence of aerosols in the lowest portion of the Planet Boundary Layer in order to provide a starting point to characterize aerosol vertical profiles. This information might provide additional information useful for the early stages of CSP solar plants assessment. The source of information of CALIPSO(CALIOP) satellite data for years 2007 and 2008. A brief state of the art of vertical profiles of aerosols is included.