Algorithm for Interpreting Light Backscattering Matrices of Cirrus Clouds for the Retrieval of Their Microphysical Parameters

Abstract

An algorithm for interpreting light backscattering matrices (LBSMs) obtained experimentally on the unique high-altitude polarization lidar of the National Research Tomsk State University in the process of cirrus cloud sounding is described. In terms of the database of LBSMs calculated theoretically within the framework of the physical optics approximation, microphysical characteristics of cirrus clouds such as the particle size, orientation, and shape, as well as the percentage of particles with different shapes, are estimated.