Sensitivity study of the residue method for the detection of aerosols from space-borne sensors

In this study the residue method for the detection of absorbing aerosols from space-borne sensors has been investigated. It uses the spectral variations of the backscattered radiances in the near ultraviolet produced by the interaction between aerosols and molecular scattering to separate aerosol absorption from scattering effects. The departure of the observed spectral contrast from that of a molecular atmosphere is computed. Its dependence on aerosol and environment variables has been investigated with several simulated aerosol laden atmospheres using a radiative transfer model. The residue increases with increasing optical thickness and aerosol layer altitude as expected. This study confirms the capability of the residue method for the detection of elevated absorbing aerosols by space-borne sensors. It can be used as an indicator for aerosol type distinction.