Lidar determination of winds by aerosol inhomogeneities: motion velocity in the planetary boundary layer.

The paper presents results from lidar measurements of wind velocity in the planetary boundary layer using correlation data processing. Two lidars are used in our experiments: a ruby lidar operating along slant paths and a YAG:Nd lidar operating for near vertical sounding used by us for the first time. On the basis of our experience the optimal sizes of aerosol inhomogeneities (30-300 m), the duration of the experiments (2-10 min), and the repetition rate of laser shots (fractions of hertz to several hertz) are determined. The results are compared to independent data obtained from anemometer measurements, theodolite- and radar-tracked pilot balloons. The range of differences is ~1-2 m/s in speed and 10-15 degrees in direction. Preliminary results from the use of lidar data to remotely sound the wind speed for various atmospheric stratifications and synoptic situations are described as well.