Abstract

The Differential Absorption Lidar (DIAL) in its several implementations has found applications in many aspects of optical remote sensing of the atmosphere, including pollution monitoring and environmental studies. Most standard formulations describing performance, however, do not allow ready evaluation of the interactions of lidar parameters, the ambient atmosphere, and the characteristics of the gas that is to be sensed. As a result, a preferred wavelength for detection of a candidate molecule, and the laser transmitter that might be most suitable for interrogation in the required atmosphere, are not always clear.

© 1997 Optical Society of America