New Setup of the UAS ALADINA for Measuring Boundary Layer Properties, Atmospheric Particles and Solar Radiation

Abstract

Abstract:The unmanned research aircraft ALADINA (Application of Light-weight Aircraft for Detecting in situ Aerosols) has been established as an important tool for boundary layer research. For simplified integration of additional sensor payload, a flexible and reliable data acquisition system was developed at the Institute of Flight Guidance, Technische Universität (TU) Braunschweig. The instrumentation consists of sensors for temperature, humidity, three-dimensional wind vector, position, black carbon, irradiance and atmospheric particles in the diameter range of ultra-fine particles up to the accumulation mode. The modular concept allows for straightforward integration and exchange of sensors. So far, more than 200 measurement flights have been performed with the robustly-engineered system ALADINA at different locations. The obtained datasets are unique in the field of atmospheric boundary layer research. In this study, a new data processing method for deriving parameters with fast resolution and to provide reliable accuracies is presented. Based on tests in the field and in the laboratory, the limitations and verifiability of integrated sensors are discussed.

The observed diurnal cycle of nocturnal low-level stratus clouds over southern West Africa: a case study

“…This is supported by the analysis of Adler et al (2018), who perform in a consistent manner an analysis for 11 IOPs 15 and we find a good agreement between these two studies. Additionally, Adler et al (2018) investigated LLC characteristics (vertical extent, coverage, onset time and horizontal distribution and evolution), as well as the intra-night variability of boundary layer conditions and processes relevant for LLC formation. present a detailed statistical analysis on the characteristics of the LLC and the dynamics in the lower atmosphere for a 41 day period.…”

“…The layer of the maximum change 10 corresponds to the level of the NLLJ maximum. This is in agreement with results in Adler et al (2018), who found that on average cooling is the main process leading to the increase of RH and saturation, while moistening contributes only little.…”

“…Although we show only one case study, the dominant processes are considered to be representative for a major part of the DACCIWA campaign, especially for the Post-onset phase of monsoon (22 June-20 July 2016, Knippertz et al, 2017). This is supported by the analysis of Adler et al (2018), who perform in a consistent manner an analysis for 11 IOPs 15 and we find a good agreement between these two studies. Additionally, Adler et al (2018) investigated LLC characteristics (vertical extent, coverage, onset time and horizontal distribution and evolution), as well as the intra-night variability of boundary layer conditions and processes relevant for LLC formation.…”

“…Note that these five phases do not occur only on this particular IOP. Adler et al (2018) found that the same phases can be distinguished for at least 10 other IOPs. The wind shear underneath the NLLJ causes mechanical production of turbulence, which is considered to be an important process leading to the LLC formation (Zhu et al, 2001;Schrage and Fink, 2012;Schuster et al, 2013).…”

“…This study is conducted in concert with the analyses presented by Adler et al (2018) and . In this study we focus on the description of the diurnal cycle of LLC and identification of physical processes and factors that control the formation, maintenance and dissolution of LLC during one typical night with undisturbed monsoon conditions and persistent LLC (e.g.…”