Time-resolved 3D mapping of atmospheric aerosols and clouds during the recent atmospheric radiation measurement water-vapor intensive operating period

We have developed simplified conical scanning telescopes using Holographic Optical Elements (HOEs) to reduce the size, mass, angular momentum, and cost of scanning lidar systems. This technology enables wide-angle scanning and three-dimensional measurements of atmospheric backscatter when used in airborne instruments, and high temporal and spatial resolution observations of atmospheric dynamic structure, including wind profiles from ground-based facilities. We deployed the Holographic Airborne Rotating Lidar Instrument Experiment (HARLIE) on the ground at the Department Of Energy's (DOE) central site in northern Oklahoma during their most recent Atmospheric Radiation Measurement (ARM) program Water Vapor Intensive Operating Period (WVIOP) in September-October 2000, in order to take advantage of the many coincident atmospheric measurements taking place at that time while collecting data with which to develop data reduction algorithms. We are evaluating the HARLIE technology and scanning techniques with an eye toward their application into other types of lidar systems, including Raman and Doppler lidar systems.