Physics and Chemistry of the Atmosphere

About us:

Our mission is to improve the understanding of changes in the atmosphere, the underlying natural and anthropogenic processes as well as the interactions within the broader Earth system. For our research, we use an observation-driven approach complemented by laboratory experiments and modelling.

Given the global nature of these environmental changes, we frequently rely on satellite observations utilizing our own satellite retrieval software and we conduct ground-based and aircraft measurements worldwide, often using instruments developed in-house.

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]