Pollution measured by aircraft
Previous research into global emissions and pollution have been carried out using research aircraft or satellites, both of which are very expensive and cover only a small portion of the globe or have limited chemical resolution. Understanding the distribution of gases in the troposphere will aid in the determination of gaseous sources and processes, in particular the interactions of greenhouse gases and the impact of biomass burning in the Tropics. CARIBIC is the acronym for a project using commercial aircraft in remote sensing for observation of the troposphere region. The aeroplanes are fitted with containers of sampling equipment and instrumentation. The regular long-range flights taken by commercial craft will enable large amounts of in situ data to be collected on gases in the troposphere. With over 40 trace gases being collected and analysed back in the laboratory, researchers can produce an accurate 3D model of the atmosphere. This model will provide valuable information for greenhouse gases and other gaseous pollutants.
