Physics and Chemistry of the Atmosphere

About us:

Our mission is to improve the understanding of changes in the atmosphere and the underlying natural and anthropogenic processes as well as the interaction within the broader Earth system, through an observation-driven approach. Given the global nature of these changes, we primarily—but not exclusively—rely on satellite observations to monitor and analyze their impacts.

Our research focuses on analyzing changes in atmospheric composition within the troposphere with particular emphasis on greenhouse gases and air pollutants. We also investigate aerosol and cloud properties and their variations, which are important climate drivers. Additionally, we study reactive gases, such as ozone, and aerosols in upper layers of the atmosphere.

For our research, we conduct extensive analyses of satellite observations, often employing our own retrieval software. This is supported by laboratory, ground-based, and aircraft measurements, as well as by modelling.

Learn more from our quarterly newsletters:

Research Topics:

CO2 AND METHANE CYCLES AND EMISSIONS		ATMOSPHERIC COMPOSITION AND AIR POLLUTION
We are interested in the atmospheric distribution, trends and sources and sinks of the greenhouse gases carbon dioxide (CO2) and methane (CH4) with a particular emphasis on anthropogenic emissions. We are exploiting observations from current satellite missions such as TROPOMI and contribute to upcoming missions like Copernicus CO2M. Additionally, advanced aircraft instruments (MAMAP) are developed and deployed to investigate emission sources and support satellite missions. Research teams involved: • Carbon and greenhouse gas group • Airborne greenhouse gas sensing group		We use a combination of remote sensing (DOAS) and in-situ measurements to investigate atmospheric photochemistry, sources of air pollution, and transformation processes in the atmosphere. We analyse global satellite data for example from TROPOMI or the geostationary GEMS mission applying retrieval methods developed at IUP. In addition, we design and deploy custom UV/Vis and laser absorption spectroscopy instruments on a variety of platforms, including the ground, aircraft, ships, and vehicles. Research teams: • DOAS group • TROLAS group
AEROSOL AND CLOUDS		OZONE AND STRATOSPHERIC AEROSOL
We develop satellite retrieval methods to study aerosol optical thickness on both regional and global scales. In addition, we investigate key cloud parameters including thermodynamic state of clouds, cloud liquid water path or cloud albedo. These parameters are crucial for understanding the radiation balance, climate dynamics and the water cycle. Research teams: • Cloud Aerosol Surface PArameter Retrieval Group		We focus on satellite measurements of ozone and other trace gases in the UV range, as well as aerosol extinction profiles and particle size distributions. Using advanced retrieval methods, we analyze ozone columns, vertical profiles, and tropospheric ozone to study trends, the ozone-climate interactions, and ozone depletion in polar regions. We also examine solar variability from UV to near-infrared using satellite data. Research teams: • UV satellite data and science group • Limb Retrieval and Radiative Transfer group

Department Structure and Members:

The structure of the department and research groups can be seen from the following diagram: [3.534 KB]