Iterative retrieval and statistical specification of atmospheric thicknesses from VTPR clear-column radiance data

Abstract

An iterative technique is developed for retrieval of thicknesses of selected atmospheric layers from verticle temperature profile radiometer (VTPR) clear-column radiance measurements. Layer mean temperatures for a simplified atmospheric model are retrieved by direct solution of the radiative transfer equation, and are then used to compute thicknesses of key atmospheric layers bounded by commonly used pressure levels. The retrieval technique illustrates the use of reference wave numbers that vary from layer to layer. Transmittance tuning is employed to correct systematic errors in the retrieved mean temperatures. Thicknesses of key layers retrieved by the technique from clear-column radiances observed during a 24 hour period at scan spots between 15 N and 45 N are separated into three latitude-band samples.