Backscattering By Non-spherical Natural Particles: Instrument Development, IOP's, And Implications For Radiative Transfer

Quantify and understand the inherent optical properties IOPs of natural particles from a standpoint of measuring size-distribution. Understand how the properties of particles composition, shape, and internal structure affect their IOP. Incorporate these properties into radiative transfer models for prediction of downwelling and upwelling radiances. We are developing a version of the LISST-100 forward scatter instrument that will deliver the same high-quality data in backscatter, the data will guide analytical light-scattering model development with such observations, and the results will be applied to predicting light propagation in the sea by providing as input, the new estimates of IOPs. This work is relevant to ONRs Sensor and Systems and Modeling thrust areas. It will contribute to understanding of how the shape of oceanic particles affect backscattering and provide an instrument that specifically addresses backscattering near 180 degrees - a crucial parameter to understand, predict, and invert LIDAR signal. The LIDAR signal is proportional to the VSF near 180 degrees.