An important new technique for probing the middle atmosphere is the use of short, powerful bursts of laser light for the detection and ranging of scattering from atmospheric molecules and aerosols. The technique is called LIDAR, and is very similar to the familiar RADAR technique. This award supports improvement and testing of the newly developed LIDAR system that the PI has designed for studies of the upper and middle atmosphere. In particular, new detector channels will by added to extend the altitude range of the system, and to increase the number of properties that can be measured simultaneously with the system. The results are expected to lead particularly to improved performance for middle atmosphere applications. As part of the testing efforts it is anticipated that a significant data set will be obtained for use in investigating atmospheric properties.
