研究目的
To analyze vertical column densities (VCDs) of SO2 retrieved by a Pandora spectral sun photometer over the Canadian oil sands and to study the relationship between total columns and surface concentrations.
研究成果
The Pandora spectrometer is effective for monitoring SO2 VCDs in regions with significant emissions, such as the Canadian oil sands. The study demonstrated a correlation between VCDs and surface concentrations under certain conditions, with the instrument's precision and uncertainty well characterized. However, elevated VCDs did not always correspond to high surface concentrations, indicating the presence of plumes above the ground. The research supports the use of ground-based measurements for validating satellite data and improving air quality monitoring.
研究不足
The study's limitations include the instrument's sensitivity to ozone absorption features, which can introduce errors in SO2 retrievals, and the need for further algorithm development to improve accuracy. Additionally, the comparison between satellite and ground-based measurements was limited by satellite pixel size and measurement uncertainties.