Short-range, Indoor Differential Absorption LIDAR System for Traceable GHG Validation Measurements

Differential absorption LIDAR (DIAL) allows simultaneous, range-resolved measurement of concentration of trace gases. To assure that data from DIAL systems can be integrated into regulatory schema and atmospheric models, the data must be validated and the uncertainties well understood. Toward that end, we have constructed a short-range DIAL system, transmitting with an OPO operating at a wavelength 1.6 mm and collecting light on a linear mode APD. The indoor range includes a 30 meter (open-ended) section in which trace gas concentration can be raised and measured by an in-situ sensor, such as a cavity-ringdown spectrometer. We will present results of validation measurements and assessments of uncertainties.